Inter-relationship of mean performance, heterosis, combining ability and genetic divergence in sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)

Abstract

Sesame has good potential for exploitation of heterosis. The present investigation was undertaken to find inter-relationship among mean performance, heterosis, combining ability of cross combinations and inter se genetic divergence of parents using 12x12 diallel matting in sesame based on morpho-economic traits including seed yield and oil content. Mean performance of all component traits and seed yield/plant exhibited invariably significant positive correlation with both relative heterosis (Hr) and heterobeltiosis (Hb) except number of primary branches/plant, capsule breadth and seeds/capsule. Similarly, mean performance was also shown to have significant positive correlation with specific combining ability (SCA) for all characters under study except capsule breadth. In contrast, mean value of all traits except days to maturity, plant height, capsule breadth and 500-seed weight had no inter se consistent significant relationship with genetic divergence.