Characterization of some Turkish sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) populations and cultivars using agronomical, quality traits and ISSR molecular markers

Landraces of sesame represent a valuable genetic resources for breeding and genetics studies. The purpose of this study conducted at the Field Crops Department of Agricultural Faculty of Cukurova University during the growing season of 2010 and 2011 years was to determine agronomical, quality and molecular diversity among 17 landraces and 7 cultivars of sesame. Morphological diversity was studied in the field experiment arranged in randomized complete block design with three replications at the research area of Field Crops Department. Molecular diversity was studied by using 14 of ISSR primers. The results of the study showed that the landraces and cultivars studied were statistically significant different in, lowest branch height, lowest capsules height, number of capsules, number of branch, 1000 seeds weight, seed yield, oil content, protein content and oil yield. According to the Jaccard's similarity index, similarity index values between varieties, lines and cultivar ranged from a minimum of 0.02 to a maximum of 0.46. From these coefficient values, it was concluded that Baydar-2001 ile Muganlı-57 were close related populations. Antalya-Kumluca ve Diyarbakır-Bismil-Bakacak 2 were distant related In the dendrogram obtained from the similarity index data plants of 17 landraces and 7 cultivars formed three main groups, as A, B and C.