Effect of Genotypes and Seed Production Environments on Seed Quality of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L)

Abstract

Fourteen genetically diverse sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) genotypes were grown under three diverse plant populations during 2001 and 2002 cropping seasons. Seeds from each harvest were subjected to different seed quality tests and data generated were analyzed. Seed quality traits were considerably affected by the genotypes and growing conditions i.e. plant population and cropping seasons. Genotypes with superior seed quality were prevalent at 166.667 and 266.667 plants ha^-1 just as seed produced under them also had superior seed quality. Therefore these two plant populations could be used for good seed production of sesame genotypes under tropical conditions. despite their diverse genetic background. Genotype 73A-11 was among the best pelforming genotypes with consistently highest germination values. excess water stress germination (£WSG) and moderate field emergence. plumule length and seedling vigour and was closely followed by Yandev 55. 530-6-1. 73A-97 and C-K-2. A close relationship found among seed germination seedling vigour and field emergence indicated that both seedling vigour and field emergence could be improved by selecting seeds of high germination. Heritability and genetic advance results revealed that the five seed quality traits were highly heritable in almost all the environments and therefore offering unlimited scope for selection. Genotypes 73A-11. Yandev 55.530-6-1. 73A-97. £8 and C-K-2 could be used as seed producing parents to obtain hybrids with superior seed quality as well as improved seed yield. Incorporation of superior seed quality characteristics into improved sesame genotypes of tropical origin is highly practicable and recommended.

Keywords: Genotypes. plant popUlation, seed production. seed quality. sesame

Tanzania J.Agric.Sc. (2007) Vol. B No.2, 87-102