Vol. 8, Special Issue 12, Part N (2024)

Studies on genetic variance, heritability, genetic advance, association and path analysis were done on 45 genotypes of sesame for 12 variables that contribute to yield. The analysis of variance showed significant differences between the genotypes for each character, indicating that the experimental materials had enough variability. Branches per plant, capsules per plant and seed yield per plant had higher genotypic and phenotypic correlation coefficients. For Branches per plant, capsules per plant, capsule length, seeds per capsule and seed yield per plant high heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean were detected, indicating that these features are controlled by additive gene action. The characters plant height, branches per plant, capsules per plant, seeds per capsule, harvest index and oil content showed significant and positive association with seed yield per plant. Therefore, simultaneous improvement of seed yield may be possible through selection of these characters. Path coefficient analysis at genotypic level indicated that plant height, branches per plant, capsules per plant, seeds per capsule, test weight, harvest index, and oil content had positive direct effects and significant positive correlation with seed yield per plant. Hence, the use of these traits in sesame improvement programme would increase the seed yield.