Genetic Potential of Sesame: A Study on Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance

Aims: This study aimed to evaluate 140 genotypes of sesame germplasms along with five check varieties to assess heritability, variability, and genetic advance for yield and yield-related agronomic characters, with the goal of improving yield potential through breeding programs. Study Design: The evaluation was conducted using an augmented design with four blocks during the kharif season of 2021. Methodology: The investigation took place at the S.K.N. College of Agriculture's institutional farm during the kharif season of 2021, utilizing 140 sesame germplasm lines and five check varieties from ICAR-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources. The germplasm was evaluated in an Augmented Design with each line planted in a 4-meter row, organized across four blocks, and standard agronomic practices were followed to ensure healthy crop development. Results: Significant differences among the germplasm lines were observed for days to 50 percent flowering, days to maturity, plant height, capsule-bearing length, capsules per plant, seeds per capsule, branches per plant, capsule length, chlorophyll content, test weight, and seed yield. This indicates substantial variability among the germplasm lines. Traits such as seed yield per plant, capsules per plant, and primary branches per plant exhibited high phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as a percentage of the mean was noted for seed yield per plant, capsules per plant, primary branches per plant, and test weight, suggesting the influence of additive gene action, thereby making simple selection effective for improving these traits. Conclusion: The evaluation of sesame germplasms revealed significant variability for various yield and agronomic traits, with traits like seed yield per plant, capsules per plant, and primary branches per plant showing potential for improvement through breeding programs. High heritability and genetic advance suggest the influence of additive gene action, facilitating effective selection strategies for enhancing yield potential in sesame.