Diversity pattern in Sesamum mutants selected for a semi-arid cropping system

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Genetics
• Plant Breeding

Background:

• Semi-arid tropical conditions require component crops with high productivity and adaptation.
• Sesamum indicum L. is cultivated in Venezuela in rotation with rice, sorghum, or maize under these challenging conditions.
• Developing improved sesame genotypes is crucial for sustainable agriculture in these regions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess genetic diversity and identify effective selection strategies for improving sesame productivity and adaptation.
• To develop superior sesame genotypes through mutation breeding for semi-arid cropping systems.
• To evaluate the efficacy of multivariate analysis in guiding crop improvement.

Main Methods:

• A mutation breeding program was conducted on six locally adapted sesame varieties.
• Multivariate analysis assessed diversity patterns across nine variables in 301 M4 progenies.
• Three selection methods (M2 bulks, individual plant selection, single variable selection) were compared.

Main Results:

• Individual plant selection (Method B) was superior, yielding 17 of the 21 best M5 progenies.
• 'Piritu' and 'CF' varieties produced the most productive progenies.
• Mutant progenies showed 40%-100% yield superiority, with enhanced earliness, synchrony, and disease resistance.

Conclusions:

• Multivariate analysis is effective for assessing diversity and optimizing selection in crop improvement.
• Mutation breeding, combined with appropriate selection strategies, can rapidly enhance sesame for semi-arid environments.
• 'Piritu' and 'CF' varieties demonstrated significant potential for further yield improvement and adaptation.