Heterosis studies in sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)

Seven sesame genotypes were crossed in a diallel method (without reclproca1s) and heterosis over MP and BP were estimated' for the yield and yield components In the twenty-one F1 hybrids. Among the crosses evaluated Vlnayak x Madhavi recorded significant positive heterosis over MP for plant height, number of branches per plant, number of capsules on main stem, number of capsules on branches, number of seeds per capsule, 1000 seed weight and seed yield per plant. Vinayak x Si 3012 exhibited significant heterosis over MP and BP for plant height and seed yield per plant; while, Padma x Si 97 recorded significant positive heterosis over MP and BP for seed yield per plant. The higher estimate of heterosis In these traits may be due to dominance or epistasis or both. These three hybrids were ranked as best hybrids and can be utilized for hybrid breeding programme.