Response to sequential selection for seed yield in four generations of two induced sesame (Sesamum indicum, L) mutants

This investigation was conducted to study the response of two sesame mutants (Mut. 8 and Mut 48) to sequential selection for seed yield/plant in four generations (M3, M4, M5 and M6). Results indicated the significance of sequential selection in early generations, with more efficiency when practiced for phenotypically superior plants within the best families. concerning mutant 8, the actual gains as per cent of population mean obtained from sequential selection for high seed yield were 28.7, 21.8, 59.2 and 42.9% in M3, M4, M5, and M6; respectively. However, regarding mutant 48, the corresponding values were 31.8, 26.7, 57.1 and 72.9% in M3, M4, M5 and M6 generations; in the same order. Sequential selection for high seed Yielding plants of both mutant families starting from M3 was accompanied by increase in number of capsules/plant, 1000-seed weight and oil content in M4. Moreover, increases in fruiting zone length; No. of capsules/plant, 1000-seed weight and oil content in M5. Furthermore in M6, increases in plant height, fruiting zone length, No. of branches/plant, No. of capsules/plant, 1000-seed weight and oil content per cent. results showed that No. of capsules, fruiting zone length and 1000-seed weigh were generally positively associated with seed yield/plant. Thus it can be concluded that these characters are good selection criteria in early generations to achieve selected lines potential seed yield. 3 tab