Characterization of Okra (Abelmoschus esculents [L.] Moench) Accessions for Agronomic Traits in Assosa District, North Western Ethiopia

Okra (Abelmoschus esculents [L.] Moench) is an important vegetable crop grown primarily in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. It is a nutritionally rich and economically significant vegetable crop, providing vitamins, fats, carbohydrates, fiber, iron, iodine, and amino acids. In Ethiopia, the crop is cultivated in lowland areas, including Tigray, Gambella, Benishangul Gumuz, and various parts of the Amhara region, relies on landraces, with limited exchange of genetic material between farmers, especially in the southwestern and western regions. However, there is limited information on the genetic variability and yield performance of Okra, with few studies focusing on the diversity among different genotypes available in Ethiopia. To address this gap, a field experiment was conducted during the 2020/21 cropping season at Assosa district, which is located in north-western Ethiopia. The aim of the experiment was to assess the genetic variability of Okra accessions in terms of both qualitative and quantitative traits. The study involved nineteen Okra accessions from the Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute, arranged in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The agronomic data recorded using an Okra descriptor list documented by the International Board for Plant Genetic Resource Institute and subjected to statistical analysis using GenStat statistical software with its 15th edition version. The genotypes AB 29410, AB 29417, AB 29411, AB 240584, and AB 29413 demonstrated relatively high fresh fruit yields (>15,000 kg/ha), with genotype AB 29410 producing the highest yield. Evaluation of agronomic and morphological traits provided a more accurate measure of genetic diversity, essential for plant breeding programs focusing on crossing. The study contributed to identifying key traits for the improvement of Okra genotypes in future breeding efforts to improve the crop.