Genetic Diversity, Variability and Correlation Studies in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)

Thirty genotypes of sesame were evaluated for seven quantitative characters to assess the genetic diversity, variability and correlation. The genotypes were grouped into seven clusters. Cluster I had largest number of genotypes. Fruiting stem length accounted for 26.6% of total diversity. The extent of variability was high in all the traits studied. The PCV and GCV values were higher for number of capsules and seed yield per plant. Heritability and genetic advance were higher for plant height, fruiting stem length, number of capsules, number of seeds per capsule, 1000 seed weight and seed yield per plant and it indicates that these characters are under the control of additive gene action and selection for these traits will be effective. The association of seed yield was found to be positive and significant with plant height, fruiting stem length, number of capsules, number of seeds per capsule and 1000 seed weight.