Combining ability analysis for yield and yield components in sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) genotypes

Abstract

Combining ability was estimated among nine parents for yield and its contributing traits in sesame. Both per se performance and gca effects were considered for judging the genotypes as best parent. The genotypes TMV 6, TMV (Sv) 7, TVS 0603 and ORM 21 recorded significant gca effect for single plant yield, number of capsules per plant, branches per plant, dry matter production. Hence these genotypes were categorized as good combiners. The cross TMV 3 x ORM 21 registered significant sca effect for single plant yield, dry matter production, plant height and branches per plant. While TMV6 x ORM 21 exhibited significant sca effect for single plant yield, dry matter production, plant height and branches per plant. The former cross involved parents with good combining ability. Hence, pedigree breeding method could be adopted to isolate desirable recombinants. However, the latter cross involved parents with poor combining ability. Hence, biparental mating followed by selection is recommended for the identification of desirable recombinants.