Guerrero 31, variety of white seed sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)

Resumen

Objective: To describe the sesame variety Sesamum indicum L. Guerrero 31 according to UPOV guidelines and to evaluate its performance across three environments in the South Pacific region of Mexico.

Design/methodology/approach: Guerrero 31 was developed via mass selection based on plant type and grain color. Its varietal description followed the UPOV Distinctness, Uniformity, and Stability (DUS) guidelines. Field trials were conducted using a randomized complete block design with three replications. Data were collected from five central row plants to record the number of capsules per plant, seed weight per plant, and grain yield (kg·ha⁻¹). A combined ANOVA, correlation analysis, and mean comparisons were performed (Tukey, p < 0.05).

Results: Guerrero 31 is a monopodial sesame variety with high pubescence on stems, flowers, and capsules. It flowers at 60 days and matures at 110 days, reaching 160–200 cm in height, with white seeds. It demonstrates moderate tolerance to Cercospora spp., Phoma spp., and Diabrotica spp. Guerrero 31 outperformed three control varieties across environments, yielding 1,120 kg·ha⁻¹ an increase of 21.61%.

Limitations/implications: To maintain genetic purity, Guerrero 31 should be planted at least 500 m away from other sesame varieties. Weed control, timely fertilization, and integrated pest management are essential during early development to achieve optimal yield.

Findings/conclusions: Guerrero 31 is a new, high yielding sesame variety adapted to altitudes from 17 to 750 m. It is registered in the National Catalogue of Plant Varieties (CNVV) under number AJN-009-190924, with breeder title No. 3514.