Evaluation of Genetic Diversity of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) Genotypes, Using Agro Morphological and Molecular Markers (RAPD)

The purpose of this study was to look at the genetic variation in seventeen genotypes of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) from different agro-climatic regions of Sudan, using both agro-morphological traits and RAPD markers. From July 13 to November 2013, the field experiment was conducted on the experimental farm of the College of Agricultural Studies, Sudan University of Science and Technology, Shambat. A randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications was employed in this investigation. The seventeen sesame genotypes had their nine growths and yield parameters assessed, the number of branches, the height of the first capsules, the number of capsules per plant, and the weight of 1000 seeds all showed a highly significant difference. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups (p≥0.05). The plant's height and days to 50% flowering were counted. The number of capsules per plant and seed weight showed the largest genotypic and phenotypic variance. The heritability value was greater when 1000 seeds were used. On the other hand, plant height had the lowest rating. The Highland genotype had the maximum yield (0.2506 ton/ha). Seed yield (ton/ha) was found to be highly associated with seed output per plant, capsule number per plant, and stem diameter. However, there was a non-significant, inverse relationship between height to first capsule and days to flowering. Molecular DNA marker (RAPD) analysis revealed that three RAPD primers chosen for molecular analysis had 170 bands, 130 of which were polymorphic (76.47%). The results based on high genetic variation for agro-morphological traits and polymorphism at DNA level indicating that, the techniques was efficient in determining diversity among sesame genotypes and this information will be useful for collection, conversation and breeding program in the future.