Genotype x environment interaction in hybrids and parents of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)

Abstract

Pooled analysis of variance for phenotypic stability of 56 F1 hybrids along with 8 parents using 8 x 8 diallel mating design for seed yield, its components and oil content in sesame were assessed in four different environments in the Marathwada region of Maharashtra. Genotype x Environment (G x E) interaction was significant for all the characters except for days to maturity. The environment (linear) component of variance was significant for all the characters except oil content against pooled error, indicating the presence of macro-environmental differences under all four environments. The mean sum of squares due to G x E (linear) was significant for days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, number of capsules per plant, length of capsule, number of seeds per capsule, 1000 seed weight and seed yield per plant indicating variation in the performance of genotypes due to the regression of genotypes on the environment. The mean sums of squares due to pooled deviation (non-linear) were significant for most characters, suggesting the role of unpredictable causes affecting stability. However, the magnitude of non-linear components was lower for most of the characters than G x E (linear) variance. Among the crosses, TBS-10 x V-29, TBS-7 x TBS-12 and R-20 x R-09 were the most stable for seed yield per plant over a wide range of environments. These stable crosses also showed stable performance for most of the yield attributing traits and oil content.