Genetic Variability and Population Structure of Ethiopian Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) Germplasm Assessed through Phenotypic Traits and Simple Sequence Repeats Markers

Ethiopia is one of the centers genetic diversity sesame (Sesamum indicum L.). The resources present in country should be explored for local, regional, and international improvement programs to design high-performing market-preferred varieties. This study’s objective was determine extent variation among 100 diverse cultivated germplasm collections using phenotypic traits simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers select distinct complementary genotypes breeding. One hundred entries were field evaluated at two locations agro-morphological seed oil content a 10 × lattice with replications. Test profiled 27 polymorphic SSR Oil Crops Research Institute Chinese Academy Agricultural Sciences. Analysis variance revealed significant (p ≤ 0.05) entry by environment interaction plant height, internode length, number secondary branches, grain yield. Genotypes such as Hirhir Kebabo Hairless-9, Setit-3, Orofalc ACC-2, Humera Sel-6, ABX = 2-01-2, Setit-1 recorded yield >0.73 ton ha−1 excellent performance component per hectare. Grain had positive < 0.01) associations (r 0.99), useful simultaneous selection sesame. gene information values 0.30 0.25, respectively, showing that tested accessions genetically diverse. Cluster analysis resolved into groups, while population structure four major heterotic thus enabling subsequent crossing develop breeding populations cultivar development. Based on genomic divergence, following superior genotypes: Hairless Sel-4, Nigara 1st Sel-1, Humera-1 Early Sel-1 (from cluster II-a), kebabo hairless-9, NN-0029(2), NN0068-2 Bawnji Fiyel Kolet, II-b). selected will serve parents local program Ethiopia.