Multivariate Analyses of Shattering and Seed Yield Related Morphological Traits Reveal High Yielding Sesame Genotypes Exhibit Low Degree of Shattering

Abstract

Sesame production faces substantial challenges, particularly in terms of shattering. To address this issue, sesame breeding programs focus on developing cultivars with minimized shattering. A pivotal aspect in achieving high-yielding and shatter-resistant cultivars lies in comprehending the association between shattering and traits related to seed yield. Thus, this study aimed to examine the correlation between shattering and morphological traits associated with seed yield, as well as to characterize genotypes based on seed yield and shattering related traits. This study utilized 64 sesame genotypes, employing an 8 x 8 simple lattice design. The study revealed significant positive correlations between shattering and the duration from capsule opening to maturity, as well as the length of cracking on opened capsules. Notably, shattering exhibits a negative correlation with seed yield related morphological traits, such as plant height and branches, suggesting taller genotypes with more branches experience lower shattering. Similarly, shattering-related traits showed a significant negative correlation with yield related morphological traits. This study advocates selecting sesame genotypes with reduced shattering while maintaining high-yielding characteristics. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) of sesame genotypes reveals essential insights, with the first four components explaining 72.90% of the total variation. Seed yield and related traits contribute significantly to PC1, emphasizing their importance in explaining variability. Capsule length, shattering (%) and days from capsule opening to maturity have large scores on PC2. PCA confirmed genotypic differences, aiding breeders in selecting high-yielding, low-shattering varieties like AsARC-acc-SG-013 for future breeding programs. Cluster analysis grouped the 64 sesame genotypes into two clusters, where Cluster I and Cluster II represent 40.62% and 59.38% of the total genotypes, respectively. Cluster analysis identifies traits distinguishing Cluster I from II, including plant height, branches, capsules, capsule-bearing zone length, seed yield, and shattering-related traits. Genotypes belonging to Cluster I exhibit superiority for desirable traits.