DECIPHERING GENETIC VARIABILITY, CHARACTER ASSOCIATIONS AND DIVERSITY ANALYSIS IN SESAME (SESAMUM INDICUM L.) GERMPLASMS

This study evaluated thirty-seven sesame germplasms using genetic variability parameters, correlation, path coefficient analysis, and genetic diversity analysis based on thirteen morphological and biochemical traits.The experiment followed a randomized block design with three replications.The analysis of variance revealed substantial variability among the germplasms under study.Traits such as primary branches per plant, capsules per plant, number of seeds per capsule, 1000 seed weight, seed yield per plant, Fe content, Zn content and crude protein content exhibited moderate to high PCV and GCV, high heritability and moderate to high genetic advance as per cent mean.Seed yield per plant was significantly and positively correlated with primary branches per plant, capsules per plant, days to 50% flowering and Zn content.Capsules per plant showed the strongest positive direct effect on seed yield per plant, followed by primary branches per plant, days to 50% flowering, number of seeds per capsule, crude protein content, and plant height.Therefore, selecting genotypes with these traits could significantly improve sesame yield.Cluster analysis categorized the genotypes into six clusters, highlighting high heterogeneity among the genotypes.Hybridization between genotypes from clusters I and III, having the highest inter-cluster distance, is suggested to maximize heterotic hybrids and generate a broader range of variation in the segregating population.Through the use of genetic variability parameters and the identification of key traits and genotype clusters via diversity analysis, breeders can make strategic selections to develop sesame varieties with enhanced productivity and quality.