Non-dehiscent sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) (IND) designated Sesaco 37 (S37) is herein disclosed. Its degree of shatter resistance, or seed retention, makes S37 suitable for mechanized harvesting and for selection for sesame crop growth in most geographical locations.

Not applicable.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to a newSesamum indicumL. variety with improved non-dehiscence (IND) appropriate for mechanized harvesting.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Sesame, orSesamum indicum, is a tropical annual cultivated worldwide for its oil and its nut flavored seeds. The sesame plant grows to a height of about 52-249 cm, and at its leaf axils are found capsules, which contain the sesame seed. Upon maturity in nature, the capsules holding the sesame seeds begin to dry down, the capsules normally split open, and the seeds fall out. Commercially, the harvester tries to recover as much seed as possible from mature capsules. From ancient times through the present, the opening of the capsule has been the major factor in attempting to successfully collect the seed. Harvesting methods, weather, and plant characteristics all contribute to the amount of seed recovered.

The majority of the world's sesame is harvested manually. With manual non-mechanized methods, it is desirable for the sesame seed to fall readily from the plant. Manual harvesting is labor intensive. Efforts to mechanize or partially mechanize harvesting met with limited success.

A breakthrough was accomplished when non-dehiscent (ND) sesame was developed and patented by Derald Ray Langham. ND sesame was found to possess the proper characteristics, which would enable mechanical harvesting without the seed loss disadvantages reported with prior varieties.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A new sesame variety designated Sesaco 37 (S37) with representative seed having been deposited on Mar. 13, 2014 with the American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) Patent Depository under ATCC Accession No. PTA-121089. In one aspect, the invention comprises a seed of sesame variety designated S37, a sample of said seed having been deposited under ATCC Accession No. PTA-121089. In another aspect, the invention comprises a sesame plant produced by growing the seed of sesame variety S37, a sample of said seed having been deposited under ATCC Accession No. PTA-121089.

In yet another aspect, the invention comprises plant cells derived from a sesame plant, said plant produced by growing the seed of sesame variety S37, a sample of said seed having been deposited under ATCC Accession No. PTA-121089. The plant cells may be selected, for example, from pollen, tissue culture of regenerable cells, and asexually reproducing cultivars.

In yet another aspect, the invention comprises a sesame plant having all the physiological and morphological characteristics of sesame variety S37, a sample of the seed of said variety having been deposited under ATCC Accession No. PTA-121089.

In another aspect, the invention comprises a sesame plant regenerated from a tissue culture of regenerable cells produced from plant cells derived from sesame variety S37, a sample of said seed having been deposited under ATCC Accession No. PTA-121089, wherein said regenerated sesame plant has all the physiological and morphological characteristics of said sesame variety S37. The plant cells may be derived from S37 seeds or plant cells from tissue from a sesame plant produced by growing the seed of sesame variety S37.

In another aspect, the invention comprises a method of producing sesame seed, comprising crossing a first parent sesame plant with a second parent sesame plant and harvesting the resultant sesame seed, wherein said first or second parent sesame plant was produced by growing seed of sesame variety S37, a sample of said seed having been deposited under ATCC Accession No. PTA-121089.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Herein disclosed is a Non-Dehiscent (ND) sesame variety designated Sesaco 37 (S37), which exhibits Improved Non-Dehiscence (IND) and novel characteristics which make it a commercially suitable sesame line. By virtue of having IND, there is less seed loss when left in the field past prime harvest time in adverse weather conditions, for example, rain, fog, dew, and wind. S37 is suitable for mechanical harvesting.

The Improved Non-Dehiscent (IND) class of sesame, developed by Derald Ray Langham, is ND, but IND sesame also exhibits better adhesion between false membranes and improved placenta attachment. IND sesame holds more seed than prior sesame types, as measured four weeks after a crop is ready for harvest (could have been combined). IND characteristics offer advantages for certain growing applications.

Compared to ND sesame, IND sesame has more seed in the capsules when measured between 4 and 9 weeks after the ideal harvest time.

Without wishing to be bound by one particular theory, it is believed that this increased amount of seed in the capsules may be due to the S37 variety having the ability to better withstand adverse environmental conditions such as inclement or harsh weather. Examples of adverse weather conditions to which S37 has been subjected in this regard are rain, fog, dew, and wind. S37 variety has been tested and meets the criteria of IND.

U.S. Pat. No. 8,080,707 is herein incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein. This application discloses Improved Non-Dehiscent Sesame. S37 is an example of a variety which resulted from breeding methods described therein.

S37 exhibits improved shatter resistance, acceptable tolerance to common fungal diseases, and a maturity that allows a wide geographical range. Further, S37 exhibits higher yield in geographical locations desirable for sesame planting, and exhibits desirable seed size and seed color. S37 is suitable for planting in areas that have approximately a 21° C. ground temperature when planted in the spring and night temperatures above 5° C. for normal termination. An exemplary desirable geographical area for S37 is from South Texas at the Rio Grande to Central Kansas and from elevations in Texas below 1000 meters eastward to the Atlantic Ocean. Other exemplary areas are areas of the United States or of the world, which areas have similar climatic conditions, daylength patterns (similar latitudes) and elevations.

In describing the present invention, it is helpful to be aware of some terminology. Sesame plants have been studied for their response to seasonal and climatic changes and the environment in, which they live during the different phases and stages of growth and development. This type of study, called “phenology” has been documented by the inventor in Langham, D. R. 2007. “Phenology of sesame,” In: J. Janick and A. Whipkey (ed.), Issues in New Crops and New Uses, ASHS Press, Alexandria, Va.

Table I summarizes the phases and stages of sesame, and will be useful in describing the present invention.

There are several concepts and terms that are used in this document that should be defined. The Environmental Protection Agency has allowed harvest aids to be used to desiccate sesame within 2 weeks of application after physiological maturity. If no harvest aids are used, in the initial drydown stage in Table I, the capsules begin to dry and open. This stage ends when 10% of the plants have one or more dry capsules. The late drydown stage ends when the plants are dry enough so that upon harvest, the seed has a moisture content of 6% or less. At this point some of the capsules have been dry for 5 weeks in the example used in Table I, but in other environments for other varieties, the drying can stretch to 7 weeks. The “ideal harvest time” is at the end of the late drying stage. At this point, a combine (also sometimes referred to as a combine harvester, a machine that combines the tasks of harvesting, threshing, and cleaning grain crops) can be used to cut and thresh the plants and separate the seed from the undesired plant material. However, at times, weather may prevent harvest at the ideal time. The plants may have to remain in the field for as much as an additional four weeks, and in some cases even longer. Thus, time to corresponds to the ideal harvest time and time ti, which corresponds to the time the grower actually harvests the sesame, is a time later than time to.

The lineage of S37 is presented inFIG. 1. G8 (1) was a line obtained from D. G. Langham in 1977 and first planted by Sesaco in the Kamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1978. It was a selection from the cultivar ‘Guacara’, which D. G. Langham developed in Venezuela in the 1950s. Guacara was an initial selection from a cross that later produced one of the major varieties in Venezuela—Aceitera. Within Sesaco, G8 first carried the identifier X011 and was later changed to TG8.

S11 (2) was a cross made by Sesaco between G8 (1) and 111X (4) in the Nickerson nursery (Yuma, Ariz.) in 1982. Within Sesaco, it has carried the identifier F804. In 1988, a selection of this line became Sesaco 11.

111 (3) was a line obtained from the NPGS (PI1173955) in 1979 and first planted by Sesaco in the Woods nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1981. NPGS obtained it in 1949 from W. N. Koelz, USDA, Beltsville, Md., who obtained it from India. Within Sesaco, 111 first carried the identifier 0858 and was then changed to X111. In 1985, a selection of this line became Sesaco 4 (SO4).

111X (4) was an outcross in the 111 (3) plot BT0458 in the Nickerson nursery (Yuma, Ariz.) in 1982. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier E0745 and was later changed to T111X.

88F (5) was a cross between S11 (2) and 888 (7) made by Sesaco in the Sharp nursery (Roll, Ariz.) in 1988. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier LCE01 and then changed to X88F and then T88F.

192 (6) was a line obtained from the M. L. Kinman in 1980 and first planted by Sesaco in the Woods nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1981. The line was originally T61429-B-4-1-3 from the Kinman USDA sesame program, College Station, Tex., which had been in cold storage at Ft. Collins, Colo. In 1997, the line was transferred to the NPGS, Griffin, Ga. and given the identifier PI599462. Within Sesaco, 192 first carried the identifier 1479 and then was changed to X191 and X193.

In 1985, a selection from X193 became Sesaco 3 (S03) and a selection of X191 became Sesaco 7 (S07). [0041]888 (7) was a cross made by Sesaco between 192 (6) and V52 (8) in the Nickerson nursery (Yuma, Ariz.) in 1982. Within Sesaco, 888 first carried the identifier F888 and was later changed to T888.

V52 (8) was a cultivar designated as SF075 obtained from theSesamumFoundation (D. G. Langham, Fallbrook, Calif.) collection in 1977 and first planted by Sesaco in the Kamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1978. TheSesamumFoundation obtained it from B. Mazzani (Maracay, Venezuela) in 1960. Originally, it was a cultivar known as Venezuela 52 developed by D. G. Langham in the 1940s. Within Sesaco, V52 first carried the identifier 0075 and was later changed to TV52.

BI791 (9) was a cross between 88F (5) and S16 (31) made by Sesaco in the Gilleland nursery (Uvalde, Tex.) in 1992. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier BI791.

SOMALIA (10) was a line obtained from the NGPS (PI210687) in 1979 and first planted in Kamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1979. The NGPS obtained it from the Administrazione Fiduciaria Italiana della Somalia, Mogadishu, Somalia. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier 0730.

H6778 (11) was a cross made by Sesaco between SOMALIA (10) and 118 (12) in the Hancock nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1984. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier H6778.

118 (12) was a line obtained from the NGPS (PI425944) in 1979 and first planted in Kamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1979. The NGPS obtained it in 1978 from P. F. Knowles, University of California, Davis, Calif., who collected it in Pakistan. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier 1118, which was changed to X118 and then to T118.

J3208 (13) was a cross made by Sesaco between H6778 (11) and H6432 (27) in the Hancock nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1985. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier J3208.

193 (14) was a selection from 192 (6), which was a line obtained from the M. L. Kinman in 1980 and first planted by Sesaco in the Woods nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1981. The line was originally T61429-B-4-1-3 from the Kinman USDA sesame program, College Station, Tex., which had been in cold storage at Ft. Collins, Colo. In 1997, the line was transferred to the NPGS, Griffin, Ga. and given the identifier PI599462. Within Sesaco, 192 first carried the identifier 1479 and then was changed to X191 (single capsule) and X193 (triple capsule). In 1985, a selection from X193 became Sesaco 3 (S03) and a selection of X191 became Sesaco 7 (S07).

H6432 (15) was a cross made by Sesaco between 193 (14) and 076 (17) in the Hancock nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1984. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier H6432.

MAXIMO (16) was a line obtained from theSesamumFoundation (D. G. Langham, Fallbrook, Calif.) in 1977 and first planted in the Kamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1978. TheSesamumFoundation obtained it from Maximo Rodriguez in 1961. He had collected it from Mexico where it was known as Instituto Regional Canasta. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier 0116 and then changed to TMAX.

076 (17) was a cross made by Sesaco between MAXIMO (16) and R234 TALL (19) in the Kamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1979. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier C076 and then changed to T076.

R234 (18) was a named variety obtained from D. M. Yermanos in 1978 from his sesame program at the University of California at Riverside. It was first planted in the Kamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1978. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier 0544 and then changed to T234.

R234 TALL (19) was an outcross found in a population of R234 (18) in the Kamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1979. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier X026.

K3255 (20) was a cross made by Sesaco between J3208 (13) and J3222 (27) in the Hancock nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1986. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier K3255.

045 (21) was a cross made by Sesaco between G8 (1) and 958 (22) in the Kamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1978. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier B045 and then changed to T045.

958 (22) was a line obtained from theSesamumFoundation in 1977 and first planted in the Kamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1978. It was obtained with a designator of SF411. TheSesamumFoundation obtained it from John Martin in 1962 who had obtained it from the D. G. Langham breeding program in Venezuela. Within Sesaco, G958-1 carried the identifier 0411 and later changed to T958.

H6785 (23) was a cross made by Sesaco between 045 (21) and 036 (25) in the Hancock nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1984. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier H6785.

982 (24) was a line obtained from theSesamumFoundation in 1977 and first planted in the Kamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1978. It was obtained with a designator of SF477 and was named G53.98-2. TheSesamumFoundation obtained it from John Martin in 1962 who had obtained it from the D. G. Langham breeding program in Venezuela. G53.98-2 was a cross made by D. G. Langham in 1953 in Guacara, Venezuela. Within Sesaco, 982 carried the identifier 0477 and then changed to T982.

036 (25) was a cross made by Sesaco between 982 (24) and G53.80-1 (26) in the Kamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1979. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier C036 and then X036. In 1984, a selection from X036 became Sesaco 6 (806).

G53.80-1 (26) was a line obtained from theSesamumFoundation in 1977 and first planted in the Kamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1978. It was obtained with a designator of SF471. TheSesamumFoundation obtained it from John Martin in 1962 who had obtained it from the D. G. Langham breeding program in Venezuela. G53.80-1 was a cross made by D. G. Langham in 1953 in Guacara, Venezuela. Within Sesaco, G53.80-1 carried the identifier 0471.

J3222 (27) was a cross made by Sesaco between H6785 (23) and H6562 (29) in the Hancock nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1982. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier J3222.

195 (28) was an outcross selected in plot MN4584 in a population of 192 (6) in the McElhaney nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1983. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier E0690 and then changed to X195.

H6562 (29) was a cross made by Sesaco between 195 (28) and 701 (30) in the Hancock nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1984. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier H6562.

701 (30) was a line obtained from the NGPS (PI292145) in 1979 and first planted in Woods nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1981. The NGPS obtained it in 1963 from Hybritech Seed International, a unit of Monsanto, U.S., which obtained it from Israel. In viewing this material in 1986, A. Ashri of Israel concluded that it was an introduction to Israel. The material is similar to introductions from the Indian subcontinent. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier 0701 and then changed to X701. In 1984, a selection from X701 became Sesaco 5 (S05).

S16 (31) was a cross made by Sesaco between K3255 (20) and S11 (2) in the Wright nursery (Roll, Ariz.) in 1987. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier KAP11 and then changed to XFXA. In 1991, a selection from XFXA became Sesaco 16 (S16).

S27 (32) was a cross between BI1791 (9) and S17 (33) made by Sesaco in the Friesenhahn nursery (Knippa, Tex.) in 1994. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier CM586 and later changed to X88K. In 2006, a selection from X88K became Sesaco 27 (S27)—U.S. Pat. No. 7,964,768.

S17 (33) was a cross between S11 (2) and 72A (35) made by Sesaco in the Wright nursery (Roll, Ariz.) in 1987. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier KAN22 and then changed to X7AB. In 1992, a selection from X7AB became Sesaco 17 (S17).

702 (34) was a line obtained from the NGPS (PI292146) in 1979 and first planted in Woods nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1981. The NGPS obtained it in 1963 from Hybritech Seed International, a unit of Monsanto, U.S., which obtained it from Israel. In viewing this material in 1986, A. Ashri of Israel concluded that it was an introduction to Israel. The material is similar to introductions from the Indian subcontinent. Within Sesaco, it has carried the identifier 0702 and then changed to X702. When the selection was made it carried the designator X702C and later changed to 72C. In 1986, a selection from 72C became Sesaco 12 (S12).

72A (35) was a selection from an outcross in 702 (34), which was a line obtained from the NGPS (PI292146) in 1979 and first planted in Woods nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1981. The NGPS obtained it in 1963 from Hybritech Seed International, a unit of Monsanto, U.S., which obtained it from Israel. In viewing this material in 1986, A. Ashri of Israel concluded that it was an introduction to Israel. The material is similar to introductions from the Indian subcontinent. Within Sesaco, it has carried the identifier 0702 and then changed to X702. When the selection was made it carried the designator X702A and later changed to 72A.

JJ608 (36) was a cross between S27 (32) and ETE (39) made by Sesaco in the Gilleland nursery (Uvalde, Tex.) in 2000. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier JJ608.

FLE (37) was a line obtained from the NGPS (PI273949) in 1979 and first planted in Kamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1979. The NGPS obtained it in 1961 from a collection made by J. Harlan in the Former Soviet Union. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier 0820, which was changed to TETH and then to TFLE.

ETA (38) was a cross between FLE (27) and S11 (2) made by Sesaco in the Sharp nursery (Roll, Ariz.) in 1989. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier N3575 and then changed to TETA.

ETE (39) was a cross between ETA (38) and SAA (45) made by Sesaco in the Gilleland nursery (Uvalde, Tex.) in 1994. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier CM208, then XETE, and finally, TETE.

804 (40) was a cross made by Sesaco between G8 (1) and 111X (4) in the Nickerson nursery (Yuma, Ariz.) in 1982. Within Sesaco, it has carried the identifier F804; in 1988, a selection of this line became Sesaco 11 (S11).

K0338 (41) was a cross made by Sesaco between 804 (40) and 96B (43) in the Hancock nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1986. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier K0338.

191 (42) was a selection from 192 (6), which was a line obtained from the M. L. Kinman in 1980 and first planted by Sesaco in the Woods nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1981. The line was originally T61429-B-4-1-3 from the Kinman USDA sesame program, College Station, Tex., which had been in cold storage at Ft. Collins, Colo. In 1997, the line was transferred to the NPGS, Griffin, Ga. and given the identifier PI599462. Within Sesaco, 192 first carried the identifier 1479 and then was changed to X191 and X193. In 1985, a selection from X193 became Sesaco 3 (S03) and a selection of X191 became Sesaco 7 (S07).

96B (43) was an outcross in the 191 (42) in plot 4637 in the McElhaney nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1983. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier E0690, which later became X196B and was later changed to T96B.

ZSA (44) was a cross made by Sesaco between K0338 (41) and S11 (2) in the Yuma greenhouse (Yuma, Ariz.) in 1986. Within Sesaco, it first carried the identifier KAC22 and was later changed to XZSA and then to TZSA.

SAA (45) was a cross made by Sesaco between ZSA (44) and 233 (50) in the Sharp nursery (Roll, Ariz.) in 1989. Within Sesaco, it has carried the identifier PE046 and later changed to XSAA and then to TSAA.

B043 (46) was a cross made by Sesaco between G8 (1) and MEL (47) in the Kamman nursery (Yuma, Ariz.) in 1978. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier B043.

MEL (47) was a line obtained from Mel Tiezen in 1978 and first planted by Sesaco in the Kamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1978. Mr. Tiezen obtained it from a farmer in Mexico. Within Sesaco, MEL first carried the identifier 0543 and was then changed to TMEL.

C063 (48) was a cross made by Sesaco between B043 (46) and G54 (49) in the Kamman nursery (Yuma, Ariz.) in 1979. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier C063.

G54 (49) was a line obtained from theSesamumFoundation (D. G. Langham, Fallbrook, Calif.) in 1977 and first planted in the Kamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1978. It was obtained with the designator SF408. TheSesamumFoundation obtained it from John Martin in 1962. This line was given to Mr. Martin by D. G. Langham. G54 was a selection from G53.48, a cross made by D. G. Langham in 1954 in Guacara, Venezuela. Within Sesaco, G54 carried the identifier 0408 and was then changed to TG54.

233 (50) was a cross made by Sesaco between C063 (48) and 193 (14) in the Hancock nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1984. Within Sesaco, it first carried the identifier H6233 and was later changed to T233.

27R (51) was a cross made by Sesaco between JJ608 (36) and S27 (32) in the Gilleland nursery (Uvalde, Tex.) in 2001. Within Sesaco, it first carried the identifier KL635 and was later changed to X27R and then to T27R.

13H (52) was a cross made by Sesaco between SAA (45) and 031 (57) in the Gilleland nursery (Uvalde, Tex.) in 1994. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier CM413 and later changed to X13H and then to T13H.

F820 (53) was a cross made by Sesaco between 111X (4) and 104 (54) in the Nickerson nursery (Yuma, Ariz.) in 1982. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier F820.

104 (54) was a line obtained from theSesamumFoundation (D. G. Langham, Fallbrook, Calif.) in 1977 and first planted in the Kamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1978. It was obtained with the designator SF084. TheSesamumFoundation obtained it from Maximo Rodriguez in 1961. He had collected it from Mexico where it was known as Instituto 8. Instituto 8 was a selection from G53.48, a cross made by D. G. Langham in 1953 in Guacara, Venezuela. Within Sesaco, 104 carried the identifier 0084. In 1983, a selection of this line became Sesaco 2 (S02)

578 (55) was a cross made by Sesaco between F820 (53) and F853 (56) in the McElhaney nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1983. Within Sesaco, it first carried the identifier G8578 and was later changed to T578.

F853 (56) was a cross made by Sesaco between 104 (54) and 192 (6) in the Nickerson nursery (Yuma, Ariz.) in 1982. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier F853.

031 (57) was a cross made by Sesaco between 578 (55) and 118 (12) in the Ramsey nursery (Roll, Ariz.) in 1984. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier H0031 and then changed to T031.

S32 (58) was a cross made by Sesaco between 13H (52) and 2CB (63) in the Gilleland nursery (Uvalde, Tex.) in 1994. The original designator was GD038, and later changed to X3HD. In 2007, a selection from X3HD became Sesaco 32 (S32), U.S. Pat. No. 7,855,317.

56B (59) was a cross made by Sesaco between 804 (40) and 562 (61) in the Wright nursery (Tacna, Ariz.) in 1987. Within Sesaco, it first carried the identifier KAN00 and was later changed to X56B and then to T56B.

F822 (60) was a cross made by Sesaco between 111 (3) and 192 (6) in the Nickerson nursery (Yuma, Ariz.) in 1982. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier F822.

562 (61) was a cross made by Sesaco between F822 (60) and 700 (62) in the McElhaney nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1983. Within Sesaco, it first carried the identifier G8562 and was later changed to T562.

700 (62) was a line obtained from the NPGS (PI292144) in 1979 and first planted by Sesaco in the Woods nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1981. NPGS obtained it in 1963 from Hybritech Seed International, a unit of Monsanto, U.S., which obtained it from Israel. In viewing this material in 1986, A. Ashri of Israel concluded that it was an introduction to Israel. The material is similar to introductions from India and Pakistan. Within Sesaco, 700 first carried the identifier 0700 and was later changed to T700.

2CB (63) was a cross made by Sesaco between 56B (59) and 2CA (66) in the Gilleland nursery (Uvalde, Tex.) in 1992. Within Sesaco, it has carried the identifier AG729 and later changed to X2CB and then to T2CB.

72C (64) was a line obtained from the NGPS (PI292146) in 1979 and first planted in Woods nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1981. The NGPS obtained it in 1963 from Hybritech Seed International, a unit of Monsanto, U.S., which obtained it from Israel. In viewing this material in 1986, A. Ashri of Israel concluded that it was an introduction to Israel. The material is similar to introductions from the Indian subcontinent. Within Sesaco, it has carried the identifier 0702 and then changed to X702. When the selection was made, it carried the designator X702C and later changed to 72C. In 1986, a selection from 72C became Sesaco 12 (S12).

L6651 (65) was a cross made by Sesaco between 72C (64) and 804 (40) in the Wright nursery (Roll, Ariz.) in 1987. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier L6651.

2CA (66) was a cross made by Sesaco between L6651 (65) and S11 (2) in the Wright nursery (Roll, Ariz.) in 1988. Within Sesaco, it has carried the identifier LCX02 and later changed to X2CA and then to T2CA.

S37 (67) was a cross made by Sesaco between 27R (51) and S32 (58) in the Gilleland nursery (Uvalde, Tex.) Year 1 (hereinafter “Year” is abbreviated as “YR”) and designated QQ440.

The resulting seed of QQ440, designated Q440 was planted in plot 3556 at the Gilleland nursery (Uvalde, Tex.) in YR2. Four plants were selected based on having a better capsule zone, height of the first capsule, and branches than S32.

The seed (1344) from one of the plants was planted in plot 4768 at the Gilleland nursery (Uvalde, Tex.) in YR3. Six plants were selected based on a good yield and having no rattle in the capsules.

The designator was changed to X27T. The seed (4013) from one of the plants was planted in plot A507 at the Chapman nursery (Lorenzo, Tex.) in YR4. Three plants were selected based on a good yield, very long capsule zone, and seed to close to the top of the plant.

The seed (1667) from one of the plants was planted in plot 3262 at the Gilleland nursery (Uvalde, Tex.) in YR5. A bulk of 16 plants was selected based on a good yield and tall, but good branching.

The seed (0750) from the bulk was planted in a strip W635 at the winter nursery (Canas, Costa Rica) in YR5.5. The entire strip was harvested.

The seed (27TCR) from the strip was planted in plot 7614 at the Gilleland nursery (Uvalde, Tex.) in YR6. A bulk of 89 plants was harvested based on very good hold and branching.

The seed (1423) from the bulk was planted in a strip W702 at the winter nursery (Ponce, Puerto Rico) in YR6.6. The entire strip was harvested.

The seed (27TPR) from the strip was planted in a strip at the Plagens farm (Knippa, Tex.) in YR7 for final verification of weather shatter resistance, lodging tolerance, combinability, and yield. The line was uniform and repeated on having good weather shatter resistance and excellent lodging tolerance. Part of the strip was harvested for an increase and part was left for a combine test. The line combined well with no issues. The designator was changed to Sesaco 37. The variety was released to farmers in YR8.

Along with breeding programs for sesame, tissue culture of sesame is currently being practiced in such areas of the world as Korea, Japan, China, India, Sri Lanka and the United States. One of ordinary skill in the art may utilize sesame plants grown from tissue culture as parental lines in the production of non-dehiscent sesame. Further IND sesame may be propagated through tissue culture methods. By means well known in the art, sesame plants can be regenerated from tissue culture having all the physiological and morphological characteristics of the source plant.

The present invention includes the seed of sesame variety S37 deposited on Mar. 13, 2014 with the American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) Patent Depository under ATCC Accession No. PTA-121089; a sesame plant or parts thereof produced by growing the seed deposited under ATCC Accession No. PTA-121089; any sesame plant having all the physiological and morphological characteristics of sesame variety S37; any sesame plant having all the physiological and morphological characteristics of a sesame plant produced by growing the seed deposited under ATCC Accession No. PTA-121089. The present invention also includes a tissue culture of regenerable cells produced from the seed having been deposited under ATCC Accession No. PTA-121089 or a tissue culture of regenerable cells from sesame variety S37 or a part thereof produced by growing the seed of sesame variety S37 having been deposited under ATCC Accession No. PTA-121089. A sesame plant regenerated from a tissue culture of regenerable cells produced from the seed having been deposited under ATCC Accession No. PTA-121089 or from sesame variety S37, wherein the regenerated sesame plant has all the physiological and morphological characteristics of sesame variety S37 is also contemplated by the present invention. Methods of producing sesame seed, comprising crossing a first parent sesame plant with a second parent sesame plant, wherein the first or second parent sesame plant was produced by seed having been deposited under ATCC Patent Deposit Designation No. PTA-121089 is part of the present invention.

Unless otherwise stated, as used herein, the term plant includes plant cells, plant protoplasts, plant cell tissue cultures from which sesame plants can be regenerated, plant calli, plant clumps, plant cells that are intact in plants, or parts of plants, such as embryos, pollen, ovules, flowers, capsules, stems, leaves, seeds, roots, root tips, and the like. Further, unless otherwise stated, as used herein, the term progeny includes plants derived from plant cells, plant protoplasts, plant cell tissue cultures from which sesame plants can be regenerated, plant calli, plant clumps, plant cells that are intact in plants, or parts of plants, such as embryos, pollen, ovules, flowers, capsules, stems, leaves, seeds, roots, root tips, and the like.

Sesame cultivar S37 has been tested experimentally over several years under various growing conditions ranging from South Texas to Southern Oklahoma. Sesame cultivar S37 has shown uniformity and stability within the limits of environmental influence for the characters listed in Table II below. Table II provides the name, definition, and rating scale of each character as well as the method by which the character is measured. Under the rating section, the rating for S37 is presented in bold text. Additionally, the distribution of the character in Sesaco's sesame development program is indicated under the rating section. Sesaco uses slightly different character specifications from “Descriptors for sesame”, AGP:IBPGR/80/71, IBPGR Secretariat, Rome, (1981) and from the form “Sesame (Sesamum indicum)”, U.S. Department of Agriculture Plant Variety Protection Office, Beltsville, Md. The descriptors in those documents were developed in the early 1980s and have not been updated to incorporate new concepts in sesame data collection.

Table II provides characteristics of S37 for forty-five (45) traits. Numerical ratings and values reported in this table were experimentally determined for S37 with prior sesame varieties in side by side replicated trials. Actual numerical values and ratings for a given variety will vary according to the environment, and the values and ratings provided in Table II were obtained in the environment specified in the parenthetical following the S37 rating. If “NT” is indicated, it indicates that trait was not tested. Table V provides a direct comparison between the new S37 variety and the prior varieties thus demonstrating the relative differences between the varieties in the side by side trials.

TABLE IICharacters Distinguishing the S37 LineCharacterRatingMethodology(1) BRANCHINGS37 = BThe amount of branching on anySTYLE(All crops, all nurseries)particular plant depends on the spaceThe potential amount ofSubjective rating based onaround the plant, In high populations,true branching in a linethe following values:branching can be suppressed. This ratingU = Uniculm − noshould be based on potential as expressedbranching except weakon end plants and plants in the open.branches in openTrue branches start in the leaf axilB = True branchesbelow the first flower, and they begin toDistribution within Sesacoemerge before the first open flower. Asbased on stable lines inlong as there is light into the leaf axils,the crossing program inthere will be additional branches that start1982-2001 (Total numberbelow the first branches in subsequentlyof samples tested = 1,333)lower nodes. Weak branches occur whenU = 42.4%a plant is in the open. They develop in theB = 57.6%lowest nodes and subsequent branchesstart at higher nodes. There are lines thatwill not branch in any circumstance.Some lines in the open will put onspontaneous branches late in the cycle.True and weak branches do not have acapsule in the same leaf axil, whereas thespontaneous branches form under thecapsule after the capsule has formed.Spontaneous branches are not counted asbranches.There are rare lines where the floweringpattern is to put on flowers on lower nodeslate in the cycle. In this case, the capsuleis formed after the branch is developed.This pattern should not be termedspontaneous branching, and the branch isnormally counted as a true branch.There are branched lines that havesecondary branches on the branches. In afew cases, there can be tertiary branches.Additional branches generally appear inlow populations.COMMENTS: the effects of lightappear to have more of an effect onbranching than moisture and fertility. Highpopulations suppress branching,(2) NUMBER OFS37 = 1Rating can be taken from about 60 daysCAPSULES PER LEAF(All crops, all nurseries)after planting through to the end of theAXILSubjective rating based oncrop.The predominantthe following values:NUMBER OF CAPSULES PER LEAFnumber of capsules per1 = SingleAXIL is highly dependent on moisture,leaf axil in the middle3 = Triplefertility, and light. In triple capsule lines, thehalf of the capsule zoneBased on potential ascentral capsule forms first, and axillarydescribed in the methodologycapsules follow a few days later. Triplepresented hereincapsule lines have the potential to put onDistribution within Sesacoaxillaries, but will not do so if plants do notbased on stable lines inhave adequate moisture and/or fertility. Inthe crossing program indrought conditions, some triple capsule1982-2001 (Total numberlines will produce only a central capsule forof samples tested = 1,327)many nodes. In these lines, when there is1 = 58.3%adequate moisture through rain or irri-3 = 41.7%gation, some will add axillary capsules ononly new nodes, while others will addaxillary capsules to all nodes. Some triplecapsule lines will not put on axillary cap-sules if there is no direct sunlight on theleaf axil. To date, lines with single cap-sules have nectaries next to the centralcapsule in the middle of the capsule zonewhile triple capsules do not. However,some lines have what appear to be nec-taries on the lower capsules of triple lines,but upon close examination, they are buds,which may or may not eventually de-velop into a flower and then a capsule. Inmost triple capsule lines, the lower andupper nodes have single capsules. Thereare some lines where the end plants canput on 5 capsules/leaf axil and a few thathave the potential to put on 7 capsules/leafaxil. 5 and 7 capsules only appear withopen plants with high moisture and fertility.In some environments, single capsule lineswill put on multiple capsules on 1 node andrarely on up to 5 nodes. These lines arenot considered triple capsule lines.(3) MATURITY CLASSS37 = M for 103 daysThe basis for this data point is DAYSThe maturity of a line in(Uvalde nurserya, 2008-TO PHYSIOLOGICAL MATURITYrelation to a standard2011)(Character No. 29). S26 is the standardline. Currently, theSubjective rating based online to be used to compute MATURITYstandard line is S26 atthe following values:CLASS. For each line, the physiological100 daysV = Very early (<85 days)maturity for each year is subtracted by theE = Early (85-94 days)S26 maturity for that year in that nursery,M = Medium (95-104and then the number of days of differencedays)is averaged. The average is then added toL = Late (105-114 days)100.T = Very late (>114 days)See DAYS TO PHYSIOLOGICALDistribution within SesacoMATURITY (Character No. 29) for thebased on stable lines ineffects of the environment on MATURITYthe crossing program inCLASS.1998-2001 (Total numberNote that S24 was formerly used as theof samples tested = 650)standard for this trait, S26 averagesV = 1.2%approximately 5 days longer than S24.E = 26.8%M = 56.2%L = 12.9%T = 2.9%(4) PLANTS37 = B1MThe first character is the BRANCHINGPHENOTYPE(All crops; all nurseries)STYLE (Character No. 1), followed by theA three characterSubjective rating based onNUMBER OF CAPSULES PER LEAFdesignation thatthe following values:AXIL (Character No. 2), and then theprovides the branchingBRANCHING STYLEMATURITY CLASS (Character No. 3),style, number ofU = Uniculm - noWhen these characters are placed in acapsules per leaf axil,branching except weakmatrix, there are 20 potential phenotypes.and the maturity classbranches in openThe phenotype provides an overview ofB = True branchesthe general appearance of the plant. ThereNUMBER OF CAPSULESis a very high correlation betweenPER LEAF AXILMATURITY CLASS and HEIGHT OF1 = SinglePLANT (Character No. 5).3 = TripleMATURITY CLASSV = Very early (<85 days)E = Early (85-94 days)M = Medium (95-104days)L = Late (105-114 days)T = Very late (>114 days)Distribution within Sesacobased on stable lines inthe crossing program in1998-2001 (Total numberof samples tested = 650)U1V = 0%U3V = 1.1%U1E = 3.8%U3E = 8.3%U1M = 16.0%U3M = 12.0%U1L = 3.4%U3L = 2.2%U1T = 0.5%U3T = 0.6%B1V = 0%B3V = 0.2%B1E = 8.0%B3E = 6.3%B1M = 23.2%B3M = 4.8%B1L = 6.5%B3L = 1.0%B1T = 1.6%B3T = 0.4%(5) HEIGHT OF PLANTS37 = 141 cmThe measurement is made after theThe height of the plant(Uvalde nursery, 2013)plants stop flowering. For plants that arefrom the ground to theValue based on thenot erect or have lodged, the plant shouldtop of the highestaverage of a minimum ofbe picked up for the measurement. In mostcapsule with viablethree plants (unit oflines the highest capsule is on the mainseedmeasure: cm)stem. In lines with the dt/dt allelesDistribution within Sesaco(determinate), the highest capsule is onbased on stable lines inthe branches.the crossing program inCOMMENTS: this height is dependent1999-2001 (Total numberon the amount of moisture, heat, fertility,of samples tested = 2,274)and population. Increased values generallylow = 56 cm; high = 249increase the height. In a high population,cmthe height will only increase if there is1 = <94.6 cm; 5.2%adequate fertility and moisture; otherwise,2 = <133.2 cm; 34.6%the height will be shorter. In low light3 = <171.8 cm; 54.9%intensities, the heights are generally taller.4 = <210.4 cm; 5.1%5 = >210.3 cm; 0.1%avg. = 134.8 cm, std =23.5(6) HEIGHT OF FIRSTS37 = 57 cmThe measurement is made after theCAPSULE(Uvalde nursery, 2013)plants stop flowering. For plants that areThe height of the firstValue based on thenot erect or have lodged, the plant shouldcapsule from theaverage of a minimum ofbe picked up for the measurement. In mostground to the bottom ofthree plants (unit oflines, the lowest capsule is on the mainthe lowest capsule onmeasure: cm)stern. True branches have capsules higherthe main sternDistribution within Sesacothan on the main stem except when thebased on stable lines inflowers fall off the main stem.the crossing program inOccasionally, on weak branches, the1999-2001 (Total numberlowest capsule is on the branches.of samples tested = 2,274)There are lines that flower in the lowerlow = 20 cm; high = 193nodes late in the cycle, and, thus, thecmmeasurement should be taken after1 = <54.6 cm; 52.7%flowering ends. In many lines the first2 = <89.2 cm; 45.5%flower does not make a capsule, and, thus,3 = <123.8 cm; 1.5%this height may not be the same as the4 = <158.4 cm; 0.3%height of the first flower. The height is5 = >158.3 cm; 0.1%correlated to the length of time toavg. = 54.2 cm, std = 14.3flowering, the earlier the lower the height.COMMENTS: see HEIGHT OF PLANT(Character No. 5) for effects ofenvironmental factors(7) CAPSULE ZONES37 = 84 cmThe measurement is derived byLENGTH(Uvalde nursery, 2013)subtracting the HEIGHT OF FIRSTThe length of theValue based on theCAPSULE (Character No. 6) from thecapsule zone. Theaverage of a minimum ofHEIGHT OF PLANT (Character No. 5).capsule zone extendsthree plants (unit ofCOMMENTS: see HEIGHT OF PLANTfrom the bottom of themeasure: cm)(Character No. 5) for effects oflowest capsule on theDistribution within Sesacoenvironmental factorsmain stem to the top ofbased on stable lines inthe highest capsule onthe crossing program inthe main sterm.1999-2001 (Total numberof samples tested = 2,274)low = 18 cm; high = 188cm1 = <52 cm; 4.7%2 = <86 cm; 53.5%3 = <120 cm; 41.3%4 = <154 cm; 0.5%5 = >153.9 cm; 0.1%avg. = 80.6 cm, std = 17.2(8) NUMBER OFS37 = 28 pairsThe count is made after the plants stopCAPSULE NODE(Uvalde nursery, 2013)flowering. On opposite and alternatePAIRSValue based on thearranged leaves, each pair of leaves isThe number of capsuleaverage of a minimum ofcounted as one node pair. In some lines,node pairs from thethree plants (unit ofthere are three leaves per node for at leastlowest capsule node tomeasure: number )part of the plant, and those are counted asthe highest node withDistribution within Sesacoone node pair. In some plants, flowers maycapsules with viablebased on stable lines innot have produced capsules on one orseed on the main stemthe crossing program inmore of the leaf axils in a node. Theseof the plant1999-2001 (Total numbernode pairs should still be counted. Nodeof samples tested = 2,154)pairs on the branches are not counted.low = 10; high- 54In years when the amount of moisture1 = <18.8; 17.9%available to the plant is irregular, node2 = <27.6; 48.3%pairs can become very irregular,3 = <36.4; 29.5%particularly on triple capsule lines. In the4 = <45.2; 3.6%upper portions of the plant, it may become5 = >45.1; 0.7%easier to count the capsule dusters andavg. = 25.3, std = 6.4divide by 2. While it is possible to countnode pairs after leaves have fallen, it ismuch easier to count while the leaves arestill on the plant.COMMENTS: the number of node pairsis dependent on the amount of moistureand fertility. Higher moisture and fertilityincreases the number of node pairs.(9) AVERAGES37 = 3.0 cmDivide the CAPSULE ZONE LENGTHINTERNODE LENGTH(Uvalde nursery, 2013)(Character No. 7) by the NUMBER OFWITHIN CAPSULEValue based on theCAPSULE NODES (Character No. 8).ZONEaverage of a minimum ofCOMMENTS: this length is dependentThe average internodethree plants (unit ofon the amount of moisture, fertility, andlength within themeasure: cm)population. Increased values generallycapsule zoneDistribution within Sesacoincrease the length. In a high population,based on stable lines inthe length will only increase if there isthe crossing program inadequate fertility and moisture; otherwise1999-2001 (Total numberthe length will be shorter. In low lightof samples tested = 2,145)intensities, the lengths are generallylow = 1.09 cm; high = 8.09longer.cmPast methodologies have measured the1 = <2.49 cm; 6.2%internode length at the middle of the2 = <3.89 cm; 74.6%capsule zone. Some have measured it at3 = <5.29 cm; 18.6%the median node and others at the median4 = <6.69 cm; 0.4%CAPSULE ZONE LENGTH.5 = >6.68 cm; 0.1%avg. = 3.35 cm, std = 0.66(10) YIELD ATS37 = 1,664 kg/haOn 3 replicated plots, when the plantsDRYDOWN(Uvalde nursery, 2013)are dry enough for direct harvest, cut aAn extrapolation of the1,490 kg/haminimum of 1/5000 of a hectare (Sesacoyield of a field by taking(Rio Hondo nurseryb,uses 1/2620) in the plot and place thesample yields2013)plants in a cloth bag. Thresh the sample inValues based on thea plot thresher and weigh the seed.average of a minimum ofMultiply the weight by the appropriatethree replications (unit ofmultiplier based on area taken to providemeasure: kg/ha)the extrapolated yield in kg/ha.Distribution within SesacoIn the Almaco thresher there is aboutbased on stable lines in3% trash left in the seed. Since yields arethe crossing program incomparative, there is no cleaning of the1999-2001 (Total numberseed done before the computation. If otherof samples tested = 1 828)threshers have more trash, the seedlow = 67 kg/hashould be cleaned before weighing.high = 2421 kg/haCOMMENTS: yields increase with1 = <537.8 kg/ha; 5.6%moisture and fertility. However, too high a2 = <1008.6 kg/ha; 15.6%moisture can lead to killing of plants. Too3 = <1479.4 kg/ha; 51.5%high fertility can lead to extra vegetative4 = <1950.2 kg/ha; 25.8%growth that may not lead to higher yields.5 = >1950.1 kg/ha; 1.4%The optimum population depends on theavg. = 1114.6 kg/ha,PLANT PHENOTYPE, Character No. 4std = 331.2(BRANCHING STYLE, Character No. 1;NUMBER OF CAPSULES PER LEAFAXIL, Character No. 2, and MATURITYCLASS, Character No. 3) and row width.(11) TOLERANCE TOS37 = NTIn a year when there is a drought; thisDROUGHTAverage of a minimum ofrating can be used to differentiate theThe relative amount ofthree plots of a subjectiveeffects of the different lines. This is atolerance to droughtrating based on thesubjective rating requiring a rater that isfollowing values:familiar with the performance of the line0 to 8 scaleunder normal conditions. The rating is7 = Little effect frombased on how the drought changes thedroughtline from normal. Thus, a short line that4 = Medium effect fromdoes not change significantly in a droughtdroughtmay have a higher rating than a tall line,1 = Considerable effectwhich is affected by the drought evenfrom droughtthough the taller line is taller in the droughtIntermediate values arethan the short line.used.Distribution within Sesacobased on stable lines inthe crossing program in2000 (Total number ofsamples tested = 632)low = 0; high = 81 = <1.6; 0.8%2 = <3.2; 28.0%3 = <4.8; 38.1%4 = <6.4; 34.5%5 = >6.3; 0.6%avg. = 4.1, std = 1.2(12) LEAF LENGTHS37 = NTSelect one leaf per node to measureThe length of the leafValue based on thefrom the 5th, 10th, and 15thnode pairs fromblade from the base ofaverage of a minimum ofthe base of the plant. All the leaves for onethe petiole to the apexthree plants (unit ofline should be collected at the same time.of the leaf from the 5th,measure: cm)Some lines retain the cotyledons, and the10th, and 15thnodeDistribution within Sesacocotyledon node does not count as a nodepairsfor 5thleaf based on stablepair. In some lines the lowest leaveslines in the crossingabscise leaving a scar on the stem.program in 2002 (TotalAbscised nodes should be counted. Innumber of lines tested =lines with alternate leaves, one node is196 with 711 samples)counted for each pair of leaves. In somelow = 13.8 cm; high = 42.5lines in parts of the plant there are threecmleaves per node, which should be counted1 = <19.5 cm; 34.7%as one node.2 = <25.3 cm; 48.0%The leaves continue growing in the first3 = <31.0 cm; 14.3%few days after they have separated from4 = <36.8 cm; 1.5%the growing tip. The choosing of leaves5 = >36.7 cm; 1.5%should be done a minimum of 5 days afteravg. = 21.5 cm, std = 4.4the 15thnode has appeared. Timing isDistribution within Sesacoimportant, because the plants will begin tofor 10thleaf based onshed their lower leaves towards the end ofstable lines in the crossingtheir cycle.program in 2002 (TotalThere are lines that have less than 15number of lines tested =nodes. In this case, the highest node196 with 711 samples)should be taken and the node numberlow = 9.3 cm; high = 32.9annotated to the measurements.cmThere can be as much as 6 mm1 = <14.0 cm; 22.4%difference between a green leaf and a dry2 = <18.7 cm; 41.8%leaf. The measurements can be done on a3 = <23.5 cm; 20.9%green or dry leaf as long as any4 = <28.2 cm; 10.2%comparison data with other lines is based5 = >28.1 cm; 4.6%on the same method.avg. = 17.9 cm, std = 4.8Generally, the lowest leaves increase inDistribution within Sesacosize until the 4thto 6thnode and then theyfor 15thleaf based ondecrease in size. This applies to LEAFstable lines in the crossingLENGTH (Character No. 12) , LEAFprogram in 2002 (TotalBLADE WIDTH (Character No. 14), andnumber of lines tested =PETIOLE LENGTH (Character No. 15). In196 with 711 samples)few cases. LEAF BLADE LENGTHlow = 4.4 cm; high = 26.2Character No. 13) can increase up the 10thcmnode; but will decrease by the 15thnode.1 = <8.8 cm; 5.1%Generally, the width will decrease at a2 = <13.1 cm; 42.9%greater rate than the length.3 = <17.5 cm; 29.8%COMMENTS: the length is dependent4 = <21.8 cm; 15.8%on the amount of moisture and fertility.5 = >21.7 cm; 6.6%Higher moisture and fertility increase theavg. = 14.3 cm, std = 4.2length. Leaf size also appears to beaffected by light intensity. In Korea; theKorean lines have much larger leaves thanin Oklahoma. In Korea, there is more cloudcover and a general haze than inOklahoma.(13) LEAF BLADES37 = NTSee LEAF LENGTH (Character No. 12)LENGTHValue based on theon how to collect leaves. TheThe length of the leafaverage of a minimum ofmeasurement does not include PETIOLEblade from the base ofthree plants (unit ofLENGTH (Character No. 15). In somethe leaf blade to themeasure: cm)leaves the blade on one side of the petioleapex of the leaf fromDistribtion within Sesacostarts before the other side. This measurethe 5th, 10th, and 15thfor 5thleaf based on stableshould start from the lowest blade side.node pairslines in the crossingThere are leaves that have enations whereprogram in 2002 (Totala blade starts and then stops. Thenumber of lines tested =enations are not considered part of the leaf196 with 711 samples)blade because they are very irregular fromlow = 9.0 cm; high = 25.5plant to plant and within a plant.cmCOMMENTS: See LEAF LENGTH1 = <12.3 cm; 14.3%(Character No. 12) for effects of2 = <15.6 cm; 60.2%environment3 = <18.9 cm; 20.9%4 = <22.2 cm; 3.1%5 = >22.1 cm; 1.5%avg. = 14.4 cm, std = 2.4Distribution within Sesacofor 10thleaf based onstable lines in the crossingprogram in 2002 (Totalnumber of lines tested =196 with 711 samples)low = 8.3 cm; high = 23.4cm1 = <11.3 cm; 18.9%2 = <14,3 cm; 42.9%3 = <17.4 cm; 25.0%4 = <20.4 cm; 9.2%5 = >20.3 cm; 4.1%avg. = 13.9 cm, std = 3.0Distribution within Sesacofor 15thleaf based onstable lines in the crossingprogram in 2002 (Totalnumber of lines tested =196 with 711 samples)low = 4.2 cm; high = 20.7cm1 = <7.5 cm; 2.0%2 = <10.8 cm; 36.7%3 = <14.1 cm; 37.8%4 = <17.4 cm; 16.3%5 = >17.3 cm; 7.1%avg. = 12.0 cm, std = 3.0(14) LEAF BLADES37 = NTSee LEAF LENGTH (Character No. 12)WIDTHValue based on theon how to collect leaves. There are manyThe width of the leafaverage of a minimum ofleaves that are not symmetrical with lobingblade measured acrossthree plants (unit ofon one side and not the other. The widththe leaf blade at themeasure: cm)should still be measured across the widestwidest point at the 5th,Distribution within Sesacopoint on a line perpendicular to the main10th, and 15thnodefor 5thleaf based on stablevein of the leaf.pairslines in the crossingOn some lines the width exceeds theprogram in 2002 (Totallength, particularly on lobed leaves,number of lines tested =COMMENTS: see LEAF LENGTH196 with 711 samples)(Character No. 12) for effects oflow = 3.4 cm; high = 31.0environmentcmThe widest leaves are lobed. Normally,1 = <8.9 cm; 53.1%the leaves have turned from lobed to2 = <14.4 cm; 33.7%lanceolate by the 10thleaf with the3 = <20.0 cm; 9.7%exception of the tropical lines.4 = <25.5 cm; 2.6%5 = >25.4 cm; 1.0%avg. = 9.6 cm, std = 4.3Distribution within Sesacofor 10thleaf based onstable lines in the crossingprogram in 2002 (Totalnumber of lines tested =196 with 711 samples)low = 1.3 cm; high = 17.6cm1 = <4.6 cm; 69.4%2 = <7.8 cm; 25.0%3 = <11.1 cm; 4.6%4 = <14.3 cm; 0%5 = >14.2 cm; 1.0%avg. = 4.3 cm, std = 2.2Distribution within Sesacofor 15thleaf based onstable lines in the crossingprogram in 2002 (Totalnumber of lines tested =196 with 711 samples)low = 0.7 cm; high = 6.0cm1 = <1.8 cm; 29.1%2 = <2.8 cm; 48.0%3 = <3.9 cm; 15.3%4 = <4.9 cm; 4.6%5 = >4.8 cm; 3.1%avg. = 2.3 cm, std = 0.9(15) PETIOLE LENGTHS37 = NTSee LEAF BLADE LENGTH (CharacterThe length of theValue based on theNo. 13) on how to collect leaves. In somepetiole from the base ofaverage of a minimum ofleaves, the blade on one side of the petiolethe petiole to the startthree plants (unit ofstarts before the other side. This measureof the leaf blade at themeasure: cm)should end where the earliest blade starts.5th, 10th, and 15thnodeDistribution within SesacoThere are leaves that have enations wherepairsfor 5thleaf based on stablea blade starts and then stops. Thelines in the crossingenations are not considered part of the leafprogram in 2002 (Totalblade because they are very irregular fromnumber of lines tested =plant to plant and within a plant and should196 with 711 samples)be measured as part of the petiole.low = 3.0 cm; high = 17.0COMMENTS: see LEAF LENGTHcm(Character No. 12) for effects of1 = <5.8 cm; 35.2%environment2 = <8.6 cm; 39.8%3 = <11.4 cm; 19.4%4 = <14.2 cm; 4.1%5 = >14.1 cm; 1.5%avg. = 7.0 cm, std = 2.5Distribution within Sesacofor 10thleaf based onstable lines in the crossingprogram in 2002 (Totalnumber of lines tested =196 with 711 samples)low = 1.0 cm; high = 14.2cm1 = <3.6 cm; 53.6%2 = <6.3 cm; 31.6%3 = <3.9 cm; 11,7%4 = <11.6 cm; 2.0%5 = >11.5 cm; 1.0%avg. = 4.0 cm, std = 2.1Distribution within Sesacofor 15thleaf based onstable lines in the crossingprogram in 2002 (Totalnumber of lines tested =196 with 711 samples)low = 0.2 cm; high = 7.4cm1 = <1.6 cm; 38.8%2 = <3.1 cm; 41.8%3 = <4.5 cm; 13.3%4 = <6.0 cm; 3.1%5 = >5.9 cm; 3.1%avg. = 2.3 cm, std = 1.3(16) NUMBER OFS37 = 2The rating can be taken from about 60CARPELS PER(All crops, all nurseries)days after planting to all the way to the endCAPSULESubjective rating based onof the crop.The predominantthe following values:There are many plants with mixednumber of carpels per2 = bicarpellatenumber of carpels as follows:capsule in the middle3 = tricarpellate1. Some bicarpellate plants will havehalf of the capsule zone4 = quadricarpellateone or more nodes near the center of the(unit of measure: actualcapsule zone that have tri- and/ornumber)quadricarpellate capsules and vice versa.Distribution within Sesaco2. Most tri- and quadri-carpellate plantsbased on the introductionswill begin and end with bicarpellate nodes.received in 1982-20013. Some plants have only one carpel(Total number of samplesthat develops, These capsules aretested = 2702)generally bent, but on examination the 2nd2 = 97.6%carpel can be seen.3 = 0.0004%4. On all types, flowers may coalesce4 = 2.3%and double or triple the number ofSesaco has not developedcarpels.lines with more than 25. On the seamless gene plants (gs/gs)carpels,the false membranes do not form locules.These are still considered bicarpellate.(17) CAPSULES37 = 2.10 cmAfter the plants are physiologicallyLENGTH FROM 10cap(All experimentalmature, take 2 capsules from five plantsTESTnurseries, 1997-2011)from the middle of the capsule zone. OnThe length of theValue based on thethree capsule per leaf axil lines, onecapsule from theaverage of a minimum ofcentral capsule and one axillary capsulebottom of the seedthree samples of theshould be taken from the same leaf axil.chamber to the top oflength taken on theThe measurement is taken on the medianthe seed chamber frommedian capsule in a 10capsule of single capsule lines and on thethe outside of thecapsule sample (unit ofmedian central capsule on three capsulecapsule. The tip of themeasure: cm)lines. The measurement is taken on drycapsule is not includedDistribution within Sesacocapsules because the length can shortenin the measurement.based on 10cap test in allas much as one mm on drydown,nurseries in 1997-2002The 10 capsules can be sampled from(Total number of linesphysiological maturity through completetested = 1,613 with 3,285drydown without an effect on thissamples)character,low = 1.3 cm; high = 4.5Generally, the capsules in the middle ofcmthe capsule zone are the longest on the1 = <1.94 cm; 2.7%plant,2 = <2.58 cm; 67.9%COMMENTS: the length of the capsule3 = <3.22 cm; 27.2%is dependent on the amount of moisture,4 = <3.86 cm; 1.9%fertility, and population. Higher moisture5 = >3.85 cm; 0.3%and fertility increase the length. Higheravg. , = 2.44 cm, std = 0.33population decreases the length even withadequate moisture/fertility.(18) SEED WEIGHTS37 = 0.225 gSee CAPSULE LENGTH FROM 10CAPPER CAPSULE FROM(All experimentalTEST (Character No. 17) for collection of10cap TESTnurseries, 1997-2011)capsules. The capsules should be dried,The weight of the seedValue based on thethe seed threshed out, and the seedin a capsule from theaverage of a minimum ofweighed.center of the capsulethree samples of theThe 10 capsules can be sampled fromzoneweight of 10 capsules (unitphysiological maturity through completeof weight: grams)drydown without an effect on thisDistribution within Sesacocharacter. After drydown. only capsulesbased on 10cap test in altwith all their seed are taken. Thus, this testnurseries in 1997-2002cannot be done on shattering lines after(Total number of linesdrydown.tested = 1,613 with 8,285Generally, the capsules in the middle ofsamples)the capsule zone have the highest seedlow = 0.053 g; high = 0.476 gweight per capsule on the plant.1 = <0.138g; 1.3%COMMENTS: see CAPSULE LENGTH2 = <0.222 g; 47.6%FROM 10CAP TEST (Character No. 17)3 = <0.307 g; 50.6%for the effects of environmental factors.4 = <0.391 g: 1.1%5 = >0.390 g; 0.1%avg. = 0.221 g, std = 0.039(19) CAPSULES37 = 0.156 gSee CAPSULE LENGTH FROM 10CAPWEIGHT PER(All experimentalTEST {Character No. 17) for collection ofCAPSULE FROMnurseries,1997-2011)capsules. The capsules should be dried,10cap TESTValue based on thethe seed threshed out. and the capsulesThe weight of theaverage of a minimum ofweighed. At limes the peduncle can stillcapsule front the centerthree samples of thebe attached to the capsules. Theof the capsule zoneweight of 10 capsules (unitpeduncles should be removed and notafter the seed has beenof measure: grams)weighed.removedDistribution within SesacoThe 10 capsules can be sampled frombased on 10cap test in allphysiological maturity throughcompletenurseries in 1997-2002drydown without an effect on this(Total number of linescharacter.tested = 1,613 with 8,285Generally, the capsules in the middle ofsamples)the capsule zone have the highest capsulelow = 0.059 g; high =weight per capsule on the plant.0.395 gCOMMENTS: see CAPSULE LENGTH1 = <0.126 g; 22.6%FROM 10CAP TEST (Character No. 17)2 = <0.193 g; 69.1%for the effects of environmental factors.3 = <0.261 g; 8.2%4 = <0.328 g; 0.9%5 = >0.327 g; 0.6%avg. = 0.152 g, std = 0.036(20) CAPSULES37 = 0.074 gThe weight is derived by dividing theWEIGHT PER CM OF(All experimentalCAPSULE WEIGHT PER CAPSULECAPSULEnurseries, 1997-2011)FROM 10CAP TEST (Character No. 19)The weight of a capsuleValue based on theby the CAPSULE LENGTH FROM 10CAPper cm of capsule fromaverage of a minimum ofTEST (Character No. 17).the center of thethree samples of theThe 10 capsules can be sampled fromcapsule zoneweight per cm of 10physiological maturity through completecapsules (unit of measure:drydown without an effect on thisgrams)character,Distribution within SesacoCOMMENTS: this character is usedbased on 10cap test in allinstead of capsule width. Capsule width isnurseries in 1997-2002difficult to measure because there are so(Total number of linesmany variables in a capsule. In atested = 1,613 with 8,285bicarpellate capsule, the width differs whensamples)measuring across one carpel or bothlow = 0.027 g; high =carpels. Capsules can also vary through0.123 gthe length of the capsule by being1 = <0.046 g; 8.2%substantially narrower at the bottom,2 = <0.065 g; 55.5%middle or top of the capsule. In 1997, four3 = <0.085 g: 36.5%widths were measured on each capsule4 = <0.104 g; 4.4%and then averaged. This average had a5 = >0.103 g; 0.5%very high correlation to the capsule weightavg. = 0.063 g; std = 0.012per cm of capsule.See CAPSULE LENGTH FROM 10CAPTEST (Character No. 17) for effects ofenvironmental factors(21) VISUAL SEEDS37 = IThis rating is used for plants that areRETENTION(All crops, all nurseries)being selected for advanced testingAmount of seed in mostSubjective rating based onwhether individually or in a bulk with all theof the capsules in thethe following values:plants having the same level of seedmiddle half of theX = <50% seed retentionretention.capsule zone when the(unsuitable for directMost “X” plants can be identified fromplant(s) are dry enoughharvest)the first capsule that dries since the seedfor direct harvest with aC = 50-74% seedwill begin falling out immediately.combineretention (unsuitable forA “C” (close to V) plant will have somedirect harvest, but maycapsules with seed and some without.segregate V or above inA “V” (visual shatter resistance) plantfuture generations)can be identified when the first 50% of theV = >74% seed retentioncapsules have dried, but a “V+” rating(sufficient seed retentionshould not be used until the complete plantfor 10cap testing)is dry and most of the capsules areW = >74% seed retentionshowing seed retention.on weathering in field afterSome “V” plants can be upgraded torains and/or winds“W” after the dry capsules have beenI = in using the “drumsubjected to weather (rain and/or wind)test” the seed in the“V” and “W” become non-dehiscent onlycapsules do not rattle andafter 10cap testing with about an 80%>85% of the capsules onpassing rate. 10cap testing is done on “I”the plant(s) harvestedselections have had about a 99% passinghave visible seed in therate.tips of the capsules four orThe “drum test” consists of placing themore weeks after the idealfingers from one hand about ½ inch fromharvest time. The “I”the center of the main stem and thenrating is used for all of thestriking the stem alternately with one fingercapsules on the plant.and then the other finger in rapid‘+’ and ‘−’ modifiers cansuccession. The human ear can perceivebe used.degree of rattling over a range. IND isdefined as having no rattle. Degree ofrattle in this test correlates with loss ofincreasing amounts of seed as capsulesare exposed to weather conditions.COMMENTS: the ratings above shouldbe made under normal conditions (600 mmof annual rainfall and 30 kg/ha of nitrogen)through high moisture/fertility conditions.In drought or very low fertility conditions, ithas been observed that there is less seedretention. In addition, high populationsmay lead to low moisture or fertility,causing less seed retention. If unusualenvironmental conditions are present, theeffects should be taken into considerationprior to rating.(22) SHAKERS37 = 71.1%See CAPSULE LENGTH FROM 10CAPSHATTER(All experimentalTEST (Character No. 17) for collection ofRESISTANCE FROMnurseries, 1997-2011)capsules. The capsules should be dried10cap TESTValue based on theand inverted. The capsules and any seedThe amount of seedaverage of a minimum ofthat has fallen out should then be placed inretention after thethree samples of theflasks on a reciprocal shaker with a 3.8 cmcapsules are dry,percentage of seedstroke with 250 strokes/min for 10 minutesinverted, and putretained in 10 capsules(see U.S. Pat. No. 6,100,452). The seedthrough a shaker (10(unit of measure: Actualthat comes out of the capsules should becapsule sample)Number expressed asweighed as ‘out seed.’ The retained seedpercentage)should be threshed out of the capsulesDistribution within Sesacoand weighed to compute the ‘total seed’.based on 10cap test in allThe shaker shatter resistance is computednurseries in 1997-2002as a percentage as follows: (total seed -(Total number of linesout seed)/total seed.tested = 1,613 with 8,285The 10 capsules can be sampled fromsamples)physiological maturity through completelow = 0; high = 100drydown without an effect on this character1 = <20; 12.9%for shatter resistant types. When taking2 = <40; 6.9%capsules after drydown, only capsules with3 = <60; 23.4%all their seed are taken. Thus, this test4 = <80; 47.7%cannot be done on shattering lines after5 = >79.9; 9.2%drydown.avg. = 55.9%, std = 23.9COMMENTS: The ratings above shouldbe made under normal conditions throughhigh moisture/fertility conditions. Indrought or very low fertility conditions, ithas been observed that there is less seedretention. In additions, high populationsmay lead to low moisture or fertilitycausing there to be less seed retention. Ifunusual environmental conditions arepresent, the effects should be taken intoconsideration prior to rating. Lines withshaker shatter resistance >64.9% areknown as non-dehiscent lines (see U.S.Pat. No. 6,100,452).(23) CAPSULES37 = SRThe rating is based on visualSHATTERING TYPE(All crops, all nurseries)observations as to seed retention as theAmount of seedSubjective rating based onplants remain standing in the field withoutretention in a line orthe following values:shocking.plantSUS = Super-shatteringGS plants can be identified while the(<2 visual seed retention -plant is putting on capsules or at drydownequates to <25%)because the carpels in the capsules do notSHA = Shattering (<4form false membranes. There are plantsvisual seed retention -that will have capsules with falseequates to <50%)membranes on the lower and upper nodesSSH = Semi-shattering (4-but most of the capsules show no false6 visual seed retention -membranes.equates to 50 to 75%)ID plants can be identified during theSR = Shatter resistant (agrowing season in that they have enationsnumeric rating >6 visualon the bottoms of the leaves. At drydownseed retention without idthey are more difficult to distinguish fromor gs alleles - equates toother lines that have closed capsules>75%; an alphabetical(other than GS). There is less of a suturerating of V, W, or I)than other capsule types.ID = IndehiscentSUS, SHA, SSH, and SR are defined by(presence of id/id withVISUAL SEED RETENTION (Charactercapsule closed)No. 21).IDO = IndehiscentCOMMENTS: Most environmental(presence of id/id withfactors do not have much of an effect oncapsule open at tip)capsule shattering type other than to makeGS = Seamlessit more difficult to distinguish in the overlap(presence of gs/gs withzone, Generally, higher moisture, highercapsule closed)fertility, and lower populations willGS = Seamlessdecrease the shattering a small amount -(presence of gs/gs withless than 10%.capsule open at tip)The wind can have a large effect indecreasing the amount of seed retention.Rain, dew and fog can also reduce seedretention,(24) NON-DEHISCENTS37 = NDLines are designated as ND only after theyTEST(All crops, all nurseries)have undergone a minimum of 3 shakerA line that has passedObjective rating based onshatter resistance tests. In order to bethe non-dehiscent testthe following values:considered an ND variety, the line mustof having shaker shatterND = Non-dehiscent linepass the ND threshold in multiple nurseriesresistance >64.9% isXX = Line that does notfor multiple years.considered an ND linepass the non-dehiscentin accordance with U.S.testPat. No. 6,100,452.ND distribution withinSesaco based on 10captest in all nurseries in1997-2006(Total number of samplestested = 10,905)ND = 53.6%XX = 46.4%(25) IMPROVED NON-S37 = 7.29This rating is used for a plot or field thatDEHISCENT VISUAL(Uvalde nursery, 2011)is being evaluated.RATINGS37 = 7.22The data is taken four or more weeksAmount of seed in most(Lorenzo nurseryc, 2010)after the ideal harvest time. See DAYSof the capsules in theValue based on theTO DIRECT HARVEST (Character No.plants in a plot four oraverage of a minimum of30). Estimate the percentage of capsulesmore weeks after thethree plots of a subjectivethat have visible seed at the top. In theideal harvest time.rating based on thebeginning in order to develop an eye forpercentage of capsulesthe rating, the evaluator should observe allwith visible seed retentionof the capsules and rate each of them; get8 < 100%a count of those with visible seeds and a7 < 85%count of total capsules; and compute a6 < 70%percentage. Once the evaluator is skilled,5 > 55%there is no need to count the capsules.Z < 55%There is a very high correlation between‘*’, ‘+’, and ‘−’ modifiersthis rating upon visual evaluation and thecan be used. Foramount of rattling generated by the “drumaverages, 0.5 is added fortest” defined above.a ‘*’, 0.33 is added for aAlthough retention can vary from plant‘+’, and 0.33 is subtractedto plant and even within a plant, the overallfor a ‘−’, e.g., “7+” = 7.33.rating is correlatable with IND.(Total number of linesIn crossing between lines, in earlytested = 288 with 801generations there is a segregation of INDsamples in 2006)plants and non-IND plants. In this caselow = 2.97; high = 7.33the plot is given a rating of the majority of1 = <6.0; 2.1%plants while the plants selected can have a2 = <6.5; 20.8%higher rating, which is reflected in VISUAL3 = <7.0; 13.2%SEED RETENTION. The ratings that are4 = <7.5; 63.9%cited in this character are for plots, but5 = >7.5; 0%ratings of 7 or 8 are only given if over 90%avg. = 6.77, std = 0.54of the plants have the higher rating.Note: The percentage oflines between 7.0 and 7.6is very high becauseSesaco has established anew threshold for a newvariety of IND >6.9 andonly lines that are IND orsegregating IND are rated.(26) IMPROVED NON-S37 = INDVarieties were designated as IND afterDEHISCENCE TEST(All crops, all nurseries)they demonstrated the definedAn ND line that passesSubjective rating based oncharacteristics with statistically significantthe rattle test and has athe following values:data.visual IND rating >6.99IND = Improved Non-is considered IND. Adehiscent linemethod for traditionalZZ = Line that does notbreeding of an IND linepass the improved non-is described in U.S.dehiscent testPat. No. 8,080,707. NDDistribution within Sesacoand IND lines shouldbased on visual IND (Totalnot have id or gsnumber of lines tested =alleles.1,934 in all nurseries from2005 to 2007)IND = 9.5%ZZ = 90.5%(27) DAYS TOS37 = 43 daysThe vegetative phase in sesame is fromFLOWERING(Uvalde nursery, 2011)the time of planting to the start ofNumber of days fromValue based on theflowering.planting until 50% of theaverage of a minimum ofThis data is taken as a date and laterplants are floweringthree plots of the numberconverted to number of days. Flowering isof days (unit of measure:defined as flowers that are open - notdays)buds.Distribution within SesacoCOMMENTS: flowering can bebased on lines in Uvaldeaccelerated by drought and it can benursery in 2000-2001delayed by higher moisture and/or fertility.(Total number of samplesHigher heat units will decrease the days totested = 1831)flowering.low = 33 days; high = 89Some lines are photosensitive and willdaysonly begin flowering at a certain number of1 = <44.2 days; 87.9%hours of daylight.2 = <55.4 days; 7.8%Start of flowering does not always3 = <66.6 days; 2.4%equate to start of capsule formation. Many4 = <77.8 days; 1.7%lines will flower and not set capsules from5 = >77.7 days; 0.2%the first flowers.avg. = 40.9 days, std = 6.3(28) DAYS TOS37 = 81 daysThe reproductive phase of sesame isFLOWER(Uvalde nursery, 2011)from the start to the end of flowering.TERMINATIONValue based on theThis data is taken as a date and laterNumber of days fromaverage of a minimum ofconverted to number of days. Flowering isplanting until 90% of thethree plots of the numberdefined as flowers that are open - notplants have stoppedof days (unit of measure:buds. At the end of the flowering period,floweringdays)the rate that a plant puts on open flowersDistribution within Sesacois reduced. Thus, there can be more thanbased on lines in Uvalde10% of plants with buds and still havenursery in 2000-2001reached this measure since there will not(Total number of samplesbe more than 10% with open flowers ontested = 2668)any one day.low = 61 days; high = 114The measure is based on the number ofdaysplants and not the number of flowering1 = <71.6 days; 21.1%heads, The branches will stop flowering2 = <82.2 days; 61.5%before the main stem; and thus the plot will3 = <92.8 days; 15.9%appear like there are more plants not4 = <103.4 days; 0.8%flowering.5 = >103.3 days; 0.8%COMMENTS: flower termination canavg. = 77.1 days, std = 6.9be accelerated by lower moisture and/orfertility, and it can be delayed by highermoisture and/or fertility. Higher heat unitswill decrease the DAYS TO FLOWERTERMINATION. It is known that there arelines that stop flowering sooner thanexpected in northern latitudes, but it is notknown if this is due to a shorterphotoperiod or cool temperatures.(29) DAYS TOS37 = 103 daysThe ripening phase of sesame is fromPHYSIOLOGICAL(Uvalde nursery, 2011)the end of flowering until physiologicalMATURITYValue based on thematurity.Number of days fromaverage of a minimum ofThis data is taken as a date and laterplanting until 50% of thethree plots of the numberconverted to number of days. Physiologicalplants reachof days (unit of measure:maturity (PM) is defined as the point atphysiological maturitydays)which ¾ of the capsules have seed withDistribution within Sesacofinal color. In most lines, the seed will alsobased on lines in Uvaldehave a seed line and tip that are dark.nursery in 2000-2001COMMENTS: The concept of(Total number of samplesphysiological maturity in sesame wastested = 2374)developed by M. L. Kinman (personallow = 77 days; high-110communication) based on the concept ofdaysdetermining the optimum time to cut a1 = <89.6 days; 16.8%plant and still harvest 95-99% of the2 = <102.2 days; 58.0%potential yield. When the seed has final3 = <114.8 days; 23.6%color, the seed can germinate under the4 = <127.4 days; 1.4%proper conditions. If the plant is cut at5 = >127.3 days; 0.2%physiological maturity, most of the seedavg. = 97.1 days, std = 7.1above the ¾ mark will go to final color andare mature enough to germinate, but willnot have as much seed weight. Since ineven a fully mature plant, there is lessseed weight made at the top of the plant,this loss of seed weight does not seriouslyaffect the potential seed weight of theplant.Although present harvest methods letthe plants mature and go to completedrydown, PM is important because afterthat point, the crop is less susceptible toyield loss due to frost or disease. The PMis also important if the crop is to beswathed or harvest aids are to be applied.Physiological maturity can beaccelerated by lower moisture and/orfertility, and it can be delayed by highermoisture and/or fertility. Higher heat unitswill decrease the days to physiologicalmaturity. Cool weather can delayphysiological maturity.(30) DAYS TO DIRECTS37 = NTThe drying phase of sesame is fromHARVESTValue based on thephysiological maturity until direct harvest.Number of days fromaverage of a minimum ofThis data is taken as a date and laterplanting until there isthree plots of the numberconverted to number of days. Directenough drydown forof days (unit of measure:harvest is defined as the date at which thedirect harvestdays)plants are dry enough for combining seedDistribution within Sesacoat 6% or less moisture. Over 99% of thebased on lines in allsesame in the world is harvested by handnurseries from 2004before the plant completely dries down.through 2006The plants should be dry below where(Total number of samplesthe cutter bar of the combine will hit thetested = 1,998)plants. In many lines, 15-20 cm from thelow = 103 days; high = 161ground can be green without an effect ondaysthe moisture of the seed. In taking the1 = <114.6 days; 3.3%data on a plot, the plants at the aisle have2 = <126.2 days; 13.3%more moisture and fertility available and3 = <137.8 days; 32.1%will drydown later. The same is true for4 = <149.4 days; 44.2%plants within the plot that have a gap of5 = >149.3 days; 7.2%half a meter between plants. These plantsavg. = 136.7 days, std =should be disregarded in taking the data.10.3In addition, there are few farmer fields thatdry down uniformly because of varyingsoils and moisture. There is a certainamount of green that can be combined andstill attain the proper moisture. Theamount of green allowable is alsodependent on the humidity at the day ofcombining - the lower the humidity thehigher the amount of allowable green.COMMENTS: This date is the mostvariable in the number of days that definethe phenology of sesame because weatheris so important. In dry years with littlerainfall, the plants will run out of moisturesooner and will dry down faster than inyears with more rainfall. Fields that areirrigated by pivots will generally dry downfaster than fields with flood or furrowirrigation because pivots do not providedeep moisture. Fields with less fertility willdrydown faster than fields with high fertility.Fields with high populations will dry downfaster than fields with low populations. Inlow moisture situations lines with a strongtaproot will dry down later than lines withmostly shallow fibrous roots.(31) LODGINGS37 = NTThe data is taken after physiologicalTOLERANCEAverage of a minimum ofmaturity (see DAYS TO PHYSIOLOGICALThe amount of lodgingthree plots of a subjectiveMATURITY - Character No. 29) andrating based on thebefore direct harvest (see DAYS TOfollowing values:DIRECT HARVEST - Character No. 30).0 to 8 ratingLodging that occurs after direct harvest in8 = no lodgingnurseries would not be a factor in7 = Less than 5% of plantscommercial sesame.lodgedThere are three types of lodging: where4 = 50% of plants lodgedthe plants break at the stem, where the1 = All plants lodgedplants bend over but do not break, andIntermediate values arewhere the plants uproot and bend over.used.When a plant breaks over, It will rarelyDistribution within Sesacoproduce any new seed, and the existingbased on lines in Uvaldeseed may or may not mature. If there is aand Lorenzo nurseries intotal break, there is no hope, but if there is2007still some active stem translocation(Total number of samplesthrough the break, there can be some yieldtested = 1061)recovery. The main causes for uprootinglow = 1.0; high = 8.0of plants are shallow root systems and1 = <2.4; 3.1%fields that have just been irrigated, creating2 = <3.8; 6.9%a soft layer of soil, When a plant bends3 = <5.2; 22,6%over early in development, some lines4 = <6.6; 18.9%adapt better than others in terms of having5 = >8.0; 48.4%the main sterns turn up and continueavg. = 6.1, std = 1.7flowering. The tips of the branches areusually matted under the canopy and willrarely turn up, but new branches candevelop, As the plants go to drydown andthe weight of the moisture is lost, many ofthe bent plants will straighten up makingthe crop easier to combine.COMMENTS: The major cause oflodging is the wind. In areas where thereare constant winds such as in Oklahomaand northern Texas, the plants adjust byadding more lignin to the stems. It takes astronger wind to cause lodging than inthose areas where there are normally onlybreezes (unless there is a strong front orthunderstorm that passes through). Inareas with more root rot; the stems areweak and it takes little wind to lodge theplants.(32) SEED COLORS37 = BFThis data is taken in the laboratory withThe color of the seed(All crops, all nurseries)the same lighting for all samples. The seedcoatSubjective rating based onfrom the whole plant is used.the following values:Seed coat color is taken on matureWH = Whiteseeds. If there is any abnormalBF = Bufftermination, the colors are not quite asTN = Taneven. The color of immature seed varies.LBR = Light brownUsually light seeded lines have tan to lightGO = Goldbrown immature seed; tan, light brown,LGR = Light graygold, brown; light gray; and gray lines haveGR = Graylighter immature seed; black lines canBR = Brownhave tan, brown, or gray immature seed.RBR = Reddish brownUsually; moisture, fertility, populationBL = Blackand light intensity do not have an effect onDistribution within Sesacoseed coat color. Light colored seeds in abased on seed harvesteddrought may have a yellowish tinge. Seedsin all nurseries in 1982-in sonic lines in the tan, light brown and2001 (Total number ofgold range can change from year to yearsamples tested = 161,809)among themselves.WH = 0.8%BF = 74.8%TN = 9.0%LBR = 1.4%GO = 1.5%LGR = 0.6%GR = 1.4%BR = 6.5%RBR = 0.6%BL = 3.5%(33) SEED WEIGHT -S37 = 0.284 gPlants that are being carried further in100 SEEDS FROM(All experimentalresearch are selected individually or inTHE ENTIRE PLANTnurseries, 1997-2012)bulk. The seed is then threshed andWeight of 100 seedsValue based on thecleaned. Count out 100 seeds and weigh.taken from the entireaverage of a minimum ofThe seed must be dry.plant.three samples of theCOMMENTS: The weight increasesweight of 100 seeds fromwith higher moisture/fertility. Generally,the 10 capsules (unit ofthe weight of the seed from the whole plantweight: grams)is lighter than the seed weight taken fromDistribution within Sesacothe 10cap test. In previous patents, thebased on stable lines in allseed size was determined from the middlenurseries in 1997-2002of the main stem using the seed from the(Total number of lines10cap test samples. The change hastested = 820 with 2,899been made since the seed from the entiresamples)plant is a better reflection of the size of thelow = 0.200 g; high =seed delivered to processors.0.455 g1 = <0.251 g; 10.1%2 = <0.302 g; 48.4%3 = <0.353 g; 34.0%4 = <0,404 g; 7.2%5 = >0.403 g; 0.2%avg. = 0.298 g, std 0.04(34) COMPOSITE KILLS37 = 6.3On the week a plot reaches PM, aTOLERANCE(All nurseries, 2011-2013)rating is assigned. The ratings are thenThe amount of plantsAverage of a minimum oftaken for 2 additional weeks. The threekilled by root rots in thethree plots of a subjectiveratings are averaged for a final kill rating.Sesaco nurseriesrating based on theFor example, if a plot has a final kill of 766,following values: Ratingsthe average for the plot will be 6.33. Whenare based on the numbera value of 1 or 2 is assigned, there are noof plants killed in a plot.additional ratings and there is noBefore physiologicalaveraging.maturity (PM), theThere are three root diseases that affectfollowing ratings are used:sesame in Texas:Fusariumoxysporum,1 = >90% kill before DAYSMacrophomina phaseoli, andPhytophthoraTO FLOWERINGparasitica. Between 1988 and the present,TERMINATION (Characterspores of these three have beenNo. 28)accumulated in one small area (1 square2 = >90% kill betweenkm) north of Uvalde, and thus it is anDAYS TO FLOWERINGexcellent screening area for the diseases.TERMINATION (CharacterAlthough each root rot disease attacksNo. 28) and DAYS TOsesame in a different way and may resultPHYSIOLOGICALin different symptoms, no effort is made toMATURITY (Character No.definitively determine which disease is the29)etiological agent for the affected plants.After PM, the followingPathological screenings in the past haveratings are used:found all 3 pathogens present in dead3 = >90% killplants.4 = 50 to 89% killCOMMENTS: Normally, the ratings will5 = 25 to 49% killdecrease a maximum of one value per6 = 10 to 24% killweek. There is an overlap between any7 = less than 10% killtwo ratings, but this is overcome to a8 = no killcertain extent by using three ratings over 2Distribution within Sesacoweeks.based on lines in UvaldeThe amount of kill is usually increasednursery in 2000 -2001with any type of stress to the plants.(Total number of samplesDrought can increase the amount oftested = 3045)Macrophomina; too much water canlow = 1.00; high = 8.00increase the amount ofPhytophthora; high1 = <1.6; 1.7%temperatures and humidity can increase2 = <3.2; 16.7%the amount ofFusariumandPhytophthora.3 = <4,8; 38.7%High population can increase all three4 = <6.4; 31.2%diseases.5 = >6.3; 11.6%The ratings for any one year can beavg. = 4.52, std = 1.49used to compare lines grown in that year,but should not be used to compare linesgrown in different years. The amount ofdisease in any one year is highlydependent on moisture, humidity, andtemperatures.(35) TOLERANCE TOS37 = NTRatings can be done in several ways:FUSARIUMWILT (F.Average of a minimum of1. Take ratings after the disease is nooxysporum)three plots of a subjectivelonger increasingAmount of tolerance torating based on the2. Take ratings on consecutive weeksFusariumwiltfollowing values:until disease is no longer increasing and0 to 8 scale of theaverage ratings.% of infected plants3. Take periodic ratings and average8 = Zero diseaseratings.7 = <10% infectedCOMMENTS:Fusariumhas been a4 = 50% infectedproblem in South Texas, particularly on1 = >90% infectedfields that have been planted with sesame0 = all infectedbefore. Normally, only the COMPOSITEIntermediate values areKILL TOLERANCE (Character No. 34)used.rating is taken.NT = not testedNEC = no economicdamage - not enoughdisease to do ratings(36) TOLERANCE TOS37 = NTSee Methodology for TOLERANCE TOPHYTOPHTHORASubjective ratingFUSARIUMWILT (Character No. 35)STEM ROT (P.See Values forFusariumCOMMENTS:Phytophthorahas beenparasitica)a problem in Arizona and Texas,Amount of tolerance toparticularly on fields that have been over-Phytophthorastem rotirrigated. Normally, only the COMPOSITEKILL TOLERANCE (Character No. 34)rating is taken.(37) TOLERANCE TOS37 = NTSee Methodology for TOLERANCE TOCHARCOAL ROTSubjective ratingFUSARIUMWILT (Character No. 35)(MacrophominaSee Values forFusariumCOMMENTS:Macrophominahas beenphaseoli)a problem in Arizona and Texas,Amount of tolerance toparticularly on fields that go into a drought.Charcoal rotNormally, only the COMPOSITE KILLTOLERANCE (Character No. 34) rating istaken.(38) TOLERANCE TOS37 = 6.3See Methodology for TOLERANCE TOBACTERIAL BLACK(Lorenzo nursery, 2010)FUSARIUMWILT (Character No. 35)ROT (PseudomonasAverage of a minimum ofCOMMENTS: This disease occurssesami)three plots of a subjectiveoccasionally when there is continual rainyAmount of tolerance torating based on theweather with few clouds. In most years,bacterial black rotfollowing values:the disease abates once the weather0 to 8 scale of thechanges. No economic damage has been% of infected plantsnoticed.8 = Zero disease7 = <10% infected4 = 50% infected1 = >90% infected0 = all infectedIntermediate values areused.NT = not testedNEC = no economicdamage - not enoughdisease to do ratingsDistribution within Sesacobased on lines in Uvaldenursery in 2004(Total number of samplestested = 593)low = 4.00; high = 8.001 = <2.4; 0.0%2 = <3.8; 0.0%3 = <5,2; 8.6%4 = <6.6; 16.0%5 = >6.5; 75.4%avg. = 7.13, std = 1.00(39) TOLERANCE TOS37 = 4.0Ratings can be done in several ways:SILVERLEAF(Puerto Rico nursery.1. Take ratings after the insects are noWHITEFLY (Bemisia2012)dlonger increasing.argentifolii)Average of a minimum of2. Take ratings on consecutive weeksAmount of tolerance tothree plots of a subjectiveuntil insects are no longer increasing andthe silverleaf whiteflyrating based on theaverage ratings.following values:3. Take periodic ratings and average0 to 8 scale of theratings.% of infected plantsCOMMENTS: there have been very0 to 8 scalefew years (1991-1995) where the8 = Zero insectsincidence of silverleaf whitefly has affected7 = Few insectsnurseries or commercial crops. In most4 = Many insectsyears, a few whiteflies can be seen in the1 = Insects killing thesesame with no economic damage.plantsIn the middle 1990s, the USDA beganIntermediate values areintroducing natural predators of theused.silverleaf whitefly in the Uvalde area. It isNT = not testednot known if the predators reduced theNEC = no economiceffects of the whitefly or there is a naturaldamage - not enoughtolerance to whitefly in the currentinsects to do ratingsvarieties.Higher temperatures decrease thenumber of days between generations.There are indications that higher moistureand fertility increase the incidence ofwhiteflies, but there is no definitive data.The sweet potato whitefly (Bemisiatabaci) has been observed in nurseriessince 1978 without any economic damage.(40) TOLERANCE TOS37 = NTSee Methodology for TOLERANCE TOGREEN PEACHSubjective rating; seeSILVERLEAF WHITEFLY (Character No.APHIDS (MyzusValues for Whitefly39)persicae)Distribution within SesacoCOMMENTS: there have been veryAmount of tolerance tobased on lines in Uvaldefew years (1990-1995) where thethe green peach aphidnursery in 2004incidence of green peach aphid has(Total number of samplesaffected nurseries or commercial crops. Intested = 412)most years, a few aphids can be seen inlow = 1.00; high = 8.00the sesame with no economic damage.1 = <2,4; 1.0%There have been many years in West2 = <3.8; 0.5%Texas when the cotton aphid has3 = <5.2; 10.7%decimated the cotton and did not build up4 = <6.6; 4.8%on adjacent sesame fields.5 = >6.5; 83.0%Higher moisture and fertility increaseavg. = 7.04, std = 1.35the susceptibility to aphids.(41) TOLERANCE TOS37 = NTSee Methodology for TOLERANCE TOPOD BORERSSubjective rating; seeSILVERLEAF WHITEFLY (Character No.(Heliothisspp.)Values for Whitefly39)Amount of tolerance toCOMMENTS: there have been verypod borersfew years (1985) where the incidence ofHeliothishas affected nurseries orcommercial crops. In most years, a fewborers can be seen in the sesame with noeconomic damage.(42) TOLERANCE TOS37 = NTSee Methodology for TOLERANCE TOARMY WORMSSubjective rating; seeSILVERLEAF WHITEFLY (Character No.(Spodopteraspp.)Values for Whitefly39)Amount of tolerance toCOMMENTS: there have been veryarmy wormsfew years (1984-1987) where theincidence ofSpodopterahas affectedcommercial crops in Arizona. In Texas,army worms have decimated cotton andalfalfa fields next to sesame without anydamage to the sesame. It is not known ifthe Arizona army worm is different fromthe Texas army worm.(43) TOLERANCE TOS37 = NTSee Methodology for TOLERANCE TOCABBAGE LOOPERS( Lorenzo nursery 2007)SILVERLEAF WHITEFLY (Character No.(Pieris rapae)Subjective rating ; see39)Amount of tolerance tovalues for WhiteflyCOMMENTS: there have been verycabbage loopersfew years (1992-1993) where theincidence of cabbage loopers has affectednurseries. In commercial sesame, cabbageloopers have been observed with noeconomic damage.(44) PRESENCE OFS37 = PY/PYIn the homogygous condition. ThePYGMY ALLELES(All crops; all nurseries)pygmy allele (py) reduces the HEIGHT OFThe pygmy allele is apy/py = homozygousTHE PLANT (Character No. 5), thenew recessive genepygmy allelesHEIGHT OF THE FIRST CAPSULEthat affects the growthPY/py = heterozygous(Character No. 6); and the AVERAGEof the sesame plant.pygmy allelesINTERNODE LENGTH WITHINPY/PY = normal (noCAPSULE ZONE (Character No. 9). In thepygmy alleles)heterozygous state, there are noDistribution within Sesacoreductions in the characters. In a crossbased on stable lines inbetween a homozygous pygmy and athe collection as of 2009normal, the pygmy allele is a recessive(Total number of lines =gene that will not show the shorter heights40,715)and internode lengths until segregating inpy/py = 145the F2 generation, with no intermediatesPY/py = 629between the pygmy and the normal line. ANormal = 39,941homozygous pygmy selected in the F2,from the F3 generation on is pure in itseffects on the three characters. Withinpygmy lines there are differences in the 3characters, but all of the pygmies differfrom the normal lines. The name “pygmy”was chosen because these lines areshorter than dwarf lines that have been inthe world germplasm for many years. Thedwarf lines share the same threecharacters, but there are intermediates inthe F2 generation and rarely any plants asshort as the original dwarf.(45) SEED OILS37 = 53.2%The data is taken after the seed hasCONTENT(Uvalde nursery, 2010)been cleaned of all extraneous materialThe percentage of oil in51.9%and is less than 6% moisture.the seed.(Uvalde nursery, 2011)There are two methodologies forValue based on thedetermining oil content: laboratory analysisaverage of a minimum ofas prescribed in the procedures of thethree samples of theAmerican Oil Chemists' Society (AOCS) orpercentage of oil in thewith a nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)seed (unit of measure:machine. The AOCS procedure does notActual number expressedremove all of the oil from the seed andas a percentage.)thus has a lower content than with theDistribution within SesacoNMR procedure. The NMR procedure isbased on lines in Uvaldepreferred because (1) it is non-destructivenursery in 2010-2011and (2) oil processors use that procedure.(Total number of samplestested = 2,015)low = 36.0; high = 59.31 = <45; 0.8%2 = <48; 4.8%3 = <51; 27.4%4 = <54; 47.4%5 = >53.9; 19.6%avg. = 51.92, std = 2.52aUvalde nursery planted north of Uvalde, Texas (latitude 29° 22′ north, longitude 99° 47′ west, 226 m elev) in middle to late May to early June from 1988 to the present; mean rainfall is 608 mm annually with a mean of 253 mm during the growing season; temperatures range from an average low of 3° C. and an average high of 17° C. in January to an average low of 22° C. and an average high of 37° C. in July. The nursery was planted on 96 cm beds from 1988 to 1997 and on 76 cm beds from 998 to the present. The nursery was pre-irrigated and has had 2-3 post-plant irrigations depending on rainfall. The fertility has varied from 30-60 units of nitrogen.bRio Rio Hondo nursery planted east of Rio Hondo, Texas (latitude 26° 14′ north, longitude 97° 34′ west, 8 m elev) in early April from 2010 to the present, mean rainfall is 715 mm annually with a mean of 323 mm during the growing season; temperatures range from an average low of 9° C. and an average high of 20° C. in January to an average low of 24° C. and an average high of 35° C. in July. The nursery was planted on 81 cm beds. The nursery was rainfed, The fertility was 80 units of nitrogen.cLorenzo nursery planted southeast of Lubbock, Texas (latitude 33° 40′ north, longitude 101° 49′ west, 1000 m elev) in mid-June from 2004 to the present; mean rainfall is 483 mm annually with a mean of 320 mm during the growing season; temperatures range from an average low of −4° C. and an average high of 11° C. in January to an average low of 20° C. and an average high of 33° C. in July. The nursery was planted on 101 cm beds. The nursery was miffed. The fertility was 30 units of nitrogen.dPuerto Rico nursery planted east of Ponce, Puerto Rico (latitude 18° 15′ north, longitude 66° 30′ west, 50 m elev) in December; mean rainfall is 963 mm annually with a mean of 0 mm during the growing season; temperatures range from an average low of 19° C. and an average high of 30° C. in January to an average low of 23° C. and an average high of 33° C. in July. The nursery was planted on 101 cm beds. The nursery had drip irrigation. The fertility was 60 units of nitrogen.

CharacterRatingMethodology(2) NUMBER OFS37 = 1Rating can be taken from about 60 daysCAPSULES PER LEAF(All crops, all nurseries)after planting through to the end of theAXILcrop.The predominantSubjective rating based onNUMBER OF CAPSULES PER LEAFnumber of capsules perthe following values:AXIL is highly dependent on moisture,leaf axil in the middle1 = Singlefertility, and light. In triple capsule lines, thehalf of the capsule zone3 = Triplecentral capsule forms first, and axillaryBased on potential ascapsules follow a few days later. Tripledescribed in the methodol-capsule lines have the potential to put onogy presented hereinaxillaries, but will not do so if plants do notDistribution within Sesacohave adequate moisture and/or fertility. Inbased on stable lines indrought conditions, some triple capsulethe crossing program inlines will produce only a central capsule for1982-2001 (Total numbermany nodes. In these lines, when there isof samples tested =1,327)adequate moisture through rain or irri-1 = 58.3%gation, some will add axillary capsules on3 = 41.7%only new nodes, while others will addaxillary capsules to all nodes. Some triplecapsule lines will not put on axillary cap-sules if there is no direct sunlight on theleaf axil. To date, lines with single cap-sules have sectaries next to the centralcapsule in the middle of the capsule zonewhile triple capsules do not. However,some lines have what appear to be nec-taries on the lower capsules of triple lines,but upon close examination, they are buds,which may or may not eventually de-velop into a flower and then a capsule. Inmost triple capsule lines, the lower andupper nodes have single capsules. Thereare some lines where the end plants canput on 5 capsules/leaf axil and a few thathave the potential to put on 7 capsules/leafaxil. 5 and 7 capsules only appear withopen plants with high moisture and fertility.In some environments, single capsule lineswill put on multiple capsules on 1 node andrarely on up to 5 nodes. These lines arenot considered triple capsule lines.(3) MATURITY CLASSS37 = M for 103 daysThe basis for this data point is DAYSThe maturity of a line in(Uvalde nurserya, 2008-TO PHYSIOLOGICAL MATURITYrelation to a standard2011)(Character No. 29). S26 is the standardline. Currently, theSubjective rating based online to be used to compute MATURITYstandard line is 826 atthe following values:CLASS. For each line, the physiological100 daysV = Vey early (<85 days)maturity for each year is subtracted by theE = Early (85-94 days)S26 maturity for that year in that nursery,M = Medium (95-104and then the number of days of differencedays)is averaged. The average is then added toL = Late (105-114 days)100.T = Very late (>114 days)See DAYS TO PHYSIOLOGICALDistribution within SesacoMATURITY (Character No. 29) for thebased on stable lines ineffects of the environment on MATURITYthe crossing program inCLASS.1998-2001 (Total numberNote that S24 was formerly used as theof samples tested = 650)standard for this trait, S26 averagesV = 1.2%approximately 5 days longer than S24.E = 26.8%M = 56.2%L = 12.9%T = 2.9%(4) PLANTS37 = B1MThe first character is the BRANCHINGPHENOTYPE(All crops; all nurseries)STYLE (Character No. 1), followed by theA three characterSubjective rating based onNUMBER OF CAPSULES PER LEAFdesignation thatthe following values:AXIL (Character No. 2), and then theprovides the branchingBRANCHING STYLEMATURITY CLASS (Character No. 3),style, number ofU = Uniculm-noWhen these characters are placed in acapsules per leaf axil,branching except weakmatrix, there are 20 potential phenotypes.and the maturity classbranches in openThe phenotype provides an overview ofB = True branchesthe general appearance of the plant. ThereNUMBER OF CAPSULESis a very high correlation betweenPER LEAF AXILMATURITY CLASS and HEIGHT OF1 = SinglePLANT (Character No. 5).3 = TripleMATURITY CLASSV = Very early (<85 days)E = Early (85-94 days)M = Medium (95-104days)L = Late (105-114 days)T = Very late (>114 days)Distribution within Sesacobased on stable lines inthe crossing program in1998-2001 (Total numberof samples tested = 650)U1V = 0%U3V = 1.1%U1E = 3.8%U3E = 8.3%U1M = 16.0%U3M = 12.0%U1L = 3.4%U3L = 2.2%U1T = 0.5%U3T = 0.6%B1V = 0%B3V = 0.2%B1E = 8.0%B3E = 6.3%B1M = 23.2%B3M = 4.8%B1L = 6.5%B3L = 1.0%B1T = 1.6%B3T = 0.4%(5) HEIGHT OF PLANTS37 = 141 cmThe measurement is made after theThe height of the plant(Uvalde nursery, 2013)plants stop flowering. For plants that arefrom the ground to theValue based on thenot erect or have lodged, the plant shouldtop of the highestaverage of a minimum ofbe picked up for the measurement. In mostcapsule with viablethree plants (unit oflines the highest capsule is on the mainseedmeasure: cm)stem. In lines with the dt/dt allelesDistribution within Sesaco(determinate), the highest capsule is onbased on stable lines inCOMMENTS: this height is dependentthe crossing program inon the amount of moisture, heat, fertility,1999-2001 (Total numberand population. Increased values generallyof samples tested = 2,274)increase the height. In a high population,low = 56 cm; high = 249the height will only increase if there iscmadequate fertility and moisture; otherwise,1 = <94.6 cm; 5.2%the height will be shorter. In low light2 = <133.2 cm; 34.6%intensities, the heights are generally taller,3 = <171.8 crn; 54.9%4 = <210.4 cm; 5.1%5 = >210.3 cm; 0.1%avg. = 134.8 cm, std =23.5(6) HEIGHT OF FIRSTS37 = 57 cmThe measurement is made after theCAPSULE(Uvalde nursery, 2013)plants stop flowering. For plants that areThe height of the firstValue based on thenot erect or have lodged, the plant shouldcapsule from theaverage of a minimum ofbe picked up for the measurement. In mostground to the bottom ofthree plants (unit oflines, the lowest capsule is on the mainthe lowest capsule onmeasure: cm)stem. True branches have capsules higherthe main stemDistribution within Sesacothan on the main stem except when thebased on stable lines inflowers fall off the main stem.the crossing program inOccasionally, on weak branches, the1999-2001 (Total numberlowest capsule is on the branches.of samples tested = 2,274)There are lines that flower in the lowerlow = 20 cm; high = 193nodes late in the cycle, and, thus, thecmmeasurement should be taken after1 = <54.6 cm; 52.7%flowering ends. In many lines the first2 = <89.2 cm; 45.5 %flower does not make a capsule, and, thus,3 = <123.8 cm; 1.5%this height may not be the same as the4 = <158.4 cm; 0.3%height of the first flower. The height is5 = >158.3 cm; 0.1%correlated to the length of time toavg. = 54.2 cm, std = 14.3flowering, the earlier the lower the height.COMMENTS: see HEIGHT OF PLANT(Character No. 5) for effects ofenvironmental factors(7) CAPSULE ZONES37 = 84 cmThe measurement is derived byLENGTH(Uvalde nursery, 2013)subtracting the HEIGHT OF FIRSTThe length of theValue based on theCAPSULE (Character No. 6) from thecapsule zone. Theaverage of a minimum ofHEIGHT OF PLANT (Character No. 5).capsule zone extendsthree plants (unit ofCOMMENTS: see HEIGHT OF PLANTfrom the bottom of themeasure: cm)(Character No. 5) for effects oflowest capsule on theDistribution within Sesacoenvironmental factorsmain stem to the top ofbased on stable lines inthe highest capsule onthe crossing program inthe main stem.1999-2001 (Total numberof samples tested = 2,274)low = 18 cm; high = 188cm1 = <52 cm; 4.7%2 = <86 cm; 53.5%3 = <120 cm; 41.3%4 = <154 cm; 0.5%5 = >153.9 cm; 0,1%avg. = 80.6 cm, std = 17.2(8) NUMBER OFS37 = 28 pairsThe count is made after the plants stopCAPSULE NODE(Uvalde nursery, 2013)flowering. On opposite and alternatePAIRSValue based on thearranged leaves, each pair of leaves isThe number of capsuleaverage of a minimum ofcounted as one node pair. In some lines,node pairs from thethree plants (unit ofthere are three leaves per node for at leastlowest capsule node tomeasure: number)part of the plant, and those are counted asthe highest node withDistribution within Sesacoone node pair. In some plants, flowers maycapsules with viablebased on stable lines innot have produced capsules on one orseed on the main stemthe crossing program inmore of the leaf axils in a node. Theseof the plant1999-2001 (Total numbernode pairs should still be counted. Nodeof samples tested = 2,154)pairs on the branches are not counted.low = 10; high = 54In years when the amount of moisture1 = <18.8; 17.9%available to the plant is irregular, node2 = <27.6; 48,3%pairs can become very irregular,3 = <36.4; 29,5%particularly on triple capsule lines. In the4 = <45.2; 3:6%upper portions of the plant, it may become5 = >45.1; 0.7%easier to count the capsule dusters andavg. = 25.3, std = 6.4divide by 2. While it is possible to countnode pairs after leaves have fallen, it ismuch easier to count while the leaves arestill on the plant.COMMENTS: the number of node pairsis dependent on the amount of moistureand fertility. Higher moisture and fertilityincreases the lumber of node pairs.(9) AVERAGES37 = 3.0 cmDivide the CAPSULE ZONE LENGTHINTERNODE LENGTH(Uvalde nursery, 2013)(Character No. 7) by the NUMBER OFWITHIN CAPSULEValue based on theCAPSULE NODES (Character No. 8).ZONEaverage of a minimum ofCOMMENTS: this length is dependentThe average internodethree plants (unit ofon the amount of moisture, fertility, andlength within themeasure: cm)population. Increased values generallycapsule zoneDistribution within Sesacoincrease the length. In a high population,based on stable lines inthe length will only increase if there isthe crossing program inadequate fertility and moisture; otherwise1999-2001 (Total numberthe length will be shorter. In low lightof samples tested = 2,145)intensities, the lengths are generallylow = 1 :09 cm; high = 8.09longer.cmPast methodologies have measured the1 = <2.49 cm; 6.2%internode length at the middle of the2 = <3.89 cm; 74.6%capsule zone. Some have measured it at3 = <5.29 cm; 18.6%the median node and others at the median4 = <6.69 cm; 0.4%CAPSULE ZONE LENGTH.5 = >6.68 cm; 0.1%avg. = 3.35 cm, std = 0.66(10) YIELD ATS37 = 1,664 kg/ haOn 3 replicated plots, when the plantsDRYDOWN(Uvalde nursery, 2013)are dry enough for direct harvest, cut aAn extrapolation of the1,490 kg/haminimum of 1/5000 of a hectare (Sesacoyield of a field by taking(Rio Hondo nurseryb,uses 1/2620) in the plot and place thesample yields2013)plants in a cloth bag. Thresh the sample inValues based on thea plot thresher and weigh the seed.average of a minimum ofMultiply the weight by the appropriatethree replications (unit ofmultiplier based on area taken to providemeasure: kg/ha)the extrapolated yield in kg/ha.Distribution within SesacoIn the Almaco thresher there is aboutbased on stable lines in3% trash left in the seed, Since yields arethe crossing program incomparative, there is no cleaning of the1999-2001 (Total numberseed done before the computation. If otherof samples tested = 1,828)threshers have more trash, the seedlow = 67 kg/hashould be cleaned before weighing.high = 2421 kg/haCOMMENTS: yields increase with1 = <537.8 kg/ha; 5.6%moisture and fertility. However, too high a2 = <1008.6 kg/ha; 15.6%moisture can lead to killing of plants. Too3 = <1479.4 kg/ha; 51.5%high fertility can lead to extra vegetative4 = <1950.2 kg/ha; 25.8%growth that may not lead to higher yields.5 = >1950.1 kg/ha; 1,4%The optimum population depends on theavg. = 1114.6 kg/ha,PLANT PHENOTYPE, Character No. 4std = 331.2(BRANCHING STYLE, Character No. 1;NUMBER OF CAPSULES PER LEAFAXIL, Character No. 2, and MATURITYCLASS, Character No. 3) and row width.(11) TOLERANCE TOS37 = NTIn a year when there is a drought; thisDROUGHTAverage of a minimum ofrating can be used to differentiate theThe relative amount ofthree plots of a subjectiveeffects of the different lines. This is atolerance to droughtrating based on thesubjective rating requiring a rater that isfollowing values:familiar with the performance of the line0 to 8 scaleunder normal conditions. The rating is7 = Little effect frombased on how the drought changes thedroughtline from normal. Thus, a short line that4 = Medium effect fromdoes not change significantly in a droughtdroughtmay have a higher rating than a tall line,1 = Considerable effectwhich is affected by the drought evenfrom droughtthough the taller line is taller in the droughtIntermediate values arethan the short line.used.Distribution within Sesacobased on stable lines inthe crossing program in2000 (Total number ofsamples tested = 632)low = 0; high = 81 = <1.6; 0.8%2 = <3.2; 28,0%3 = <4,8; 38.1%4 = <6.4; 34.5%5 = >6.3; 0.6%avg. = 4.1, std = 1.2(12) LEAF LENGTHS37 = NTSelect one leaf per node to measureThe length of the leafValue based on thefrom the 5th, 10th, and 15thnode pairs fromblade from the base ofaverage of a minimum ofthe base of the plant. All the leaves for onethe petiole to the apexthree plants (unit ofline should be collected at the same time.of the leaf from the 5th,measure: cm)Some lines retain the cotyledons, and the10th, and 15thnodeDistribution within Sesacocotyledon node does not count as a nodepairsfor 5thleaf based on stablepair. In some lines the lowest leaveslines in the crossingabscise leaving a scar on the stem.program in 2002 (TotalAbscised nodes should be counted. Innumber of lines tested =lines with alternate leaves, one node is196 with 711 samples)counted for each pair of leaves. In somelow = 13.8 cm; high = 42.5lines in parts of the plant there are threecmleaves per node, which should be counted1 = <19.5 cm; 341%as one node.2 = <25.3 cm; 48.0%The leaves continue growing in the first3 = <31.0 cm; 14.3%few days after they have separated from4 = <36.8 cm; 1,5%the growing tip. The choosing of leaves5 = >36.7 cm; 1.5%should be done a minimum of 5 days afteravg. = 21.5 cm, std = 4.4the 15thnode has appeared. Timing isDistribution within Sesacoimportant, because the plants will begin tofor 10thleaf based onshed their lower leaves towards the end ofstable lines in the crossingtheir cycle.program in 2002 (TotalThere are lines that have less than 15number of lines tested =nodes. In this case, the highest node196 with 711 samples)should be taken and the node numberlow = 9.3 cm; high = 32.9annotated to the measurements.cmThere can be as much as 6 mm1 = <14.0 cm; 22.4%difference between a green leaf and a dry2 = <18.7 cm; 41.8%leaf. The measurements can be done on a3 = <23,5 cm; 20.9%green or dry leaf as long as any4 = <28.2 cm; 10.2%comparison data with other lines is based5 = >28.1 cm; 4.6%on the same method.avg. = 17.9 cm, std = 4.8Generally, the lowest leaves increase inDistribution within Sesacosize until the 4thto 6thnode and then theyfor 15thleaf based ondecrease in size. This applies to LEAFstable lines in the crossingLENGTH (Character No, 12), LEAFprogram in 2002 (TotalBLADE WIDTH (Character No. 14), andnumber of lines tested =PETIOLE LENGTH (Character No. 15). In196 with 711 samples)few cases. LEAF BLADE LENGTHlow = 4.4 cm; high = 26.2Character No. 13) can increase up the 10thcmnode; but will decrease by the 15thnode.1 = <8.8 cm; 5.1%Generally, the width will decrease at a2 = <13.1 cm; 42.9%greater rate than the length.3 = <17,5 cm; 29.8%COMMENTS: the length is dependent4 = <21.8 cm; 15.8%on the amount of moisture and fertility.5 = >21.7 cm; 6.6%Higher moisture and fertility increase theavg. = 14.3 cm, std = 4.2length. Leaf size also appears to beaffected by light intensity. In Korea; theKorean lines have much larger leaves thanin Oklahoma. In Korea, there is more cloudcover and a general haze than inOklahoma.(13) LEAF BLADES37 = NTSee LEAF LENGTH (Character No. 12)LENGTHValue based on theon how to collect leaves. TheThe length of the leafaverage of a minimum ofmeasurement does not include PETIOLEblade from the base ofthree plants (unit ofLENGTH (Character No. 15). In somethe leaf blade to themeasure: cm)leaves the blade on one side of the petioleapex of the leaf fromDistribution within Sesacostarts before the other side. This measurethe 5th, 10th, and 15thfor 5thleaf based on stableshould start from the lowest blade side.node pairslines in the crossingThere are leaves that have enations whereprogram in 2002 (Totala blade starts and then stops. Thenumber of lines tested =enations are not considered part of the leaf196 with 711 samples)blade because they are very irregular fromlow = 9.0 cm; high = 25.5plant to plant and within a plant.cmCOMMENTS: see LEAF LENGTH1 = <12.3 cm; 14.3%(Character No. 12) for effects of2 = <15.6 cm; 60.2%environment3 = <18.9 cm; 20.9%4 = <22.2 cm; 3.1%5 = >22.1 cm; 1.5%avg. = 14.4 cm, std = 2.4Distribution within Sesacofor 10thleaf based onstable lines in the crossingprogram in 2002 (Totalnumber of lines tested =196 with 711 samples)low = 8.3 cm; high = 23.4cm1 = <11.3 cm; 18.9%2 = <14,3 cm; 42.9%3 = <17.4 cm; 25.0%4 = <20.4 cm; 9.2%5 = >20.3 cm; 4.1%avg. = 13.9 cm, std = 3.0Distribution within Sesacofor 15thleaf based onstable lines in the crossingprogram in 2002 (Totalnumber of lines tested =196 with 711 samples)low = 4.2 cm; high = 20.7cm1 = <7.5 cm; 2.0%2 = <10.8 cm; 36.7%3 = <14,1 cm; 37.8%4 = <17.4 cm; 16.3%5 = >17.3 cm; 7.1%avg. = 12.0 cm, std = 3.0(14) LEAF BLADES37 = NTSee LEAF LENGTH (Character No. 12)WIDTHValue based on theon how to collect leaves. There are manyThe width of the leafaverage of a minimum ofleaves that are not symmetrical with lobingblade measured acrossthree plants (unit ofon one side and not the other. The widththe leaf blade at themeasure: cm)should still be measured across the widestwidest point at the 5th,Distribution within Sesacopoint on a line perpendicular to the main10th, and 15thnodefor 5thleaf based on stablevein of the leaf.pairslines in the crossingOn some lines the width exceeds theprogram in 2002 (Totallength, particularly on lobed leaves,number of lines tested =COMMENTS: see LEAF LENGTH196 with 711 samples)(Character No. 12) for effects oflow = 3.4 cm; high = 31.0environmentcmThe widest leaves are lobed. Normally,1 = <8.9 cm; 53.1%the leaves have turned from lobed to2 = <14.4 cm; 33.7%lanceolate by the 10thleaf with the3 = <20.0 cm; 9.7%exception of the tropical lines.4 = <25.5 cm; 2.6%5 = >25.4 cm; 1.0%avg. = 9.6 cm, std = 4.3Distribution within Sesacofor 10thleaf based onstable lines in the crossingprogram in 2002 (Totalnumber of lines tested =196 with 711 samples)low = 1.3 cm; high = 17.6cm1 = 4.6 cm; 69.4%2 = <7.8 cm; 25.0%3 = <11.1 cm; 4.6%4 = <14.3 cm; 0%5 = >14.2 cm; 1.0%avg. = 4.3 cm, std = 2.2Distribution within Sesacofor 15thleaf based onstable lines in the crossingprogram in 2002 (Totalnumber of lines tested =196 with 711 samples)low = 0.7 cm; high = 6.0cm1 = <1.8 cm; 29.1%2 = <2.8 cm; 48.0%3 = <3.9 cm; 15.3%4 = <4.9 cm; 4.6%5 = >4.8 crn; 3.1%avg. = 2.3 cm, std = 0.9(15) PETIOLE LENGTHS37 = NTSee LEAF BLADE LENGTH (CharacterThe length of theValue based on theNo. 13) on how to collect leaves. In somepetiole from the base ofaverage of a minimum ofleaves, the blade on one side of the petiolethe petiole to the startthree plants (unit ofstarts before the other side. This measureof the leaf blade at themeasure: cm)should end where the earliest blade starts.5th, 10th, and 15thnodeDistribution within SesacoThere are leaves that have enations wherepairsfor 5thleaf based on stablea blade starts and then stops. Thelines in the crossingenations are not considered part of the leafprogram in 2002 (Totalblade because they are very irregular fromnumber of lines tested =plant to plant and within a plant and should196 with 711 samples)be measured as part of the petiole.low = 3.0 cm; high = 17.0COMMENTS: see LEAF LENGTHcm(Character No. 12) for effects of1 = <5,8 cm; 35.2%environment2 = <8.6 cm; 39.8%3 = <11.4 cm; 19.4%4 = <14.2 cm; 4.1%5 = >14.1 cm; 1.5%avg. = 7.0 cm, std=2.5Distribution within Sesacofor 10thleaf based onstable lines in the crossingprogram in 2002 (Totalnumber of lines tested =196 with 711 samples)low = 1.0 cm; high = 14.2cm1 = <3.6 cm; 53.6%2 = <6.3 cm; 31.6%3 = <8.9 cm; 11.7%4 = <11.6 cm; 2.0%5 = >11.5 cm; 1.0%avg. = 4.0 crn, std = 2.1Distribution within Sesacofor 15thleaf based onstable lines in the crossingprogram in 2002 (Totalnumber of lines tested =196 with 711 samples)low = 0.2 cm; high = 7.4cm1 = 1.6 cm; 38.8%2 = <3.1 cm; 41.8%3 = <4.5 cm; 13,3%4 = <6.0 cm; 3.1%5 = >5.9 cm; 3.1%avg. = 2.3 cm, std = 1.3(16) NUMBER OFS37 = 2The rating can be taken from about 60CARPELS PER(All crops,all nurseries)days after planting to all the way to the endCAPSULESubjective rating based onof the crop.The predominantthe following values:There are many plants with mixednumber of carpels per2 = bicarpellatenumber of carpels as follows:capsule in the middle3 = tricarpellate1. Some bicarpellate plants will havehalf of the capsule zone4 = quadricarpellateone or more nodes near the center of the(unit of measure: actualcapsule zone that have tri- and/ornumber)quadricarpellate capsules and vice versa.Distribution within Sesaco2. Most tri- and quadri-carpellate plantsbased on the introductionswill begin and end with bicarpellate nodes.received in 1982-20013. Some plants have only one carpel(Total number of samplesthat develops, These capsules aretested = 2702)generally bent, but on examination the 2nd2 = 97.6%carpel can be seen.3 = 0.0004%4. On all types, flowers may coalesce4 = 2.3%and double or triple the number ofSesaco has not developedcarpels.lines with more than 25. On the seamless gene plants (gs/gs)carpels.the false membranes do not form locules.These are still considered bicarpellate.(17) CAPSULES37 = 2.10 cmAfter the plants are physiologicallyLENGTH FROM 10cap(All experimentalmature, take 2 capsules from five plantsTESTnurseries, 1997-2011)from the middle of the capsule zone. OnThe length of theValue based on thethree capsule per leaf axil lines, onecapsule from theaverage of a minimum ofcentral capsule and one axillary capsulebottom of the seedthree samples of theshould be taken from the same leaf axil.chamber to the top oflength taken on theThe measurement is taken on the medianthe seed chamber frommedian capsule in a 10capsule of single capsule lines and on thethe outside of thecapsule sample (unit ofmedian central capsule on three capsulecapsule. The tip of themeasure: cm)lines. The measurement is taken on drycapsule is not includedDistribution within Sesacocapsules because the length can shortenin the measurement.based on 10cap test in allas much as one mm on drydown.nurseries in 1997-2002The 10 capsules can be sampled from(Total number of linesphysiological maturity through completetested = 1,613 with 3,285drydown without an effect on thissamples)character.low = 1.3 cm; high = 4.5Generally, the capsules in the middle ofcmthe capsule zone are the longest on the1 = <1.94 cm; 2.7%plant.2 = <2.58 cm; 67.9%COMMENTS: the length of the capsule3 = <3.22 cm; 27.2%is dependent on the amount of moisture,4 = <3.86 cm; 1.9%fertility, and population. Higher moisture5 = >3.85 cm; 0.3%and fertility increase the length. Higheravg. = 2.44 cm, std = 0.33population decreases the length even withadequate moisture/fertility.(18) SEED WEIGHTS37 = 0.225 gSee CAPSULE LENGTH FROM 10CAPPER CAPSULE FROM(All experimentalTEST (Character No. 17) for collection of10cap TESTnurseries, 1997-2011)capsules. The capsules should be dried,The weight of the seedValue based on thethe seed threshed out, and the seedin a capsule from theaverage of a minimum ofweighed.center of the capsulethree samples of theThe 10 capsules can be sampled fromzoneweight of 10 capsules (unitphysiological maturity through completeof weight: grams)drydown without an effect on thisDistribution within Sesacocharacter. After drydown, only capsulesbased on 10cap test in allwith all their seed are taken. Thus, this testnurseries in 1997-2002cannot be done on shattering lines after(Total number of linesdrydown.tested = 1,613 with 8,285Generally, the capsules in the middle ofsamples)the capsule zone have the highest seedlow = 0.053 g; high =weight per capsule on the plant.0.476 gCOMMENTS: see CAPSULE LENGTH1 = <0.138 g; 1.3%FROM 10CAP TEST (Character No. 17)2 = <0.222 g; 47,6%for the effects of environmental factors.3 = <0.307 g; 50.6%4 = <0.391 g; 1.1%5 = >0.390 g; 0.1%avg. = 0.221 g, std = 0.039(19) CAPSULES37 = 0.156 gSee CAPSULE LENGTH FROM 10CAPWEIGHT PER(All experimentalTEST (Character No. 17) for collection ofCAPSULE FROMnurseries,1997-2011)capsules. The capsules should be dried,10cap TESTValue based on thethe seed threshed out, and the capsulesThe weight of theaverage of a minimum ofweighed. At times the peduncle can stillcapsule from the centerthree samples of thebe attached to the capsules. Theof the capsule zoneweight of 10 capsules (unitpeduncles should be removed and notafter the seed has beenof measure: grams)weighed.removedDistribution within SesacoThe 10 capsules can be sampled frombased on 10cap test in all character.physiological maturity through completenurseries in 1997-2002drydown without an effect on this(Total number of linesGenerally, the capsules in the middle oftested = 1,613 with 8,285the capsule zone have the highest capsulesamples)weight per capsule on the plant.low = 0,059 g; high =COMMENTS: see CAPSULE LENGTH0.395 gFROM 10CAP TEST (Character No. 17)1 = <0.126 g; 22.6%for the effects of environmental factors.2 = <0.193 g; 69.1%3 = <0.261 g; 8.2%4 = <0.328 g; 0.9%5 = >0.327 g; 0.6%avg. = 0.152 g, std = 0.036(20) CAPSULES37 = 0.074 gThe weight is derived by dividing theWEIGHT PER CM OF(All experimentalCAPSULE WEIGHT PER CAPSULECAPSULEnurseries, 1997-2011)FROM 10CAP TEST (Character No. 19)The weight of a capsuleValue based on theby the CAPSULE LENGTH FROM 10CAPper cm of capsule fromaverage of a minimum ofTEST (Character No. 17).the center of thethree samples of theThe 10 capsules can be sampled fromcapsule zoneweight per cm of 10physiological maturity through completecapsules (unit of measure:drydown without an effect on thisgrams)character.Distribution within SesacoCOMMENTS: this character is usedbased on 10cap test in allinstead of capsule width. Capsule width isnurseries in 1997-2002difficult to measure because there are so(Total number of linesmany variables in a capsule. In atested = 1,613 with 3,285bicarpellate capsule, the width differs whensamples)measuring across one carpel or bothlow = 0.027 g; high =carpels. Capsules can also vary through0.123 gthe length of the capsule by being1 = <0.046 g; 8.2%substantially narrower at the bottom,2 = <0,065 g; 55.5%middle or top of the capsule. In 1997, four3 = <0.085 g: 36.5%widths were measured on each capsule4 = <0.104 g; 4.4%and then averaged. This average had a5 = >0.103 g; 0.5%very high correlation to the capsule weightavg. = 0.063 g; std = 0.012per cm of capsule.See CAPSULE LENGTH FROM 10CAPTEST (Character No. 17) for effects ofenvironmental factors(21) VISUAL SEEDS37 = 1This rating is used for plants that areRETENTION(All crops, all nurseries)being selected for advanced testingAmount of seed in mostSubjective rating based onwhether individually or in a bulk with all theof the capsules in thethe following values:plants having the same level of seedmiddle half of theX = <50% seed retentionretention.capsule zone when the(unsuitable for directMost “X” plants can be identified fromplant(s) are dry enoughharvest)the first capsule that dries since the seedfor direct harvest with aC = 50-74% seedwill begin falling out immediately.combineretention (unsuitable forA “C” (close to V) plant will have somedirect harvest, but maycapsules with seed and some without.segregate V or above inA “V” (visual shatter resistance) plantfuture generations)can be identified when the first 50% of theV = >74% seed retentioncapsules have dried, but a “V”+ rating(sufficient seed retentionshould not be used until the complete plantfor 10cap testing)is dry and most of the capsules areW = >74% seed retentionshowing seed retention.on weathering in field afterSome “V” plants can be upgraded torains and/or winds“W” after the dry capsules have beenI = in using the “drumsubjected to weather (rain and/or wind)test” the seed in the“V” and “W” become non-dehiscent onlycapsules do not rattle andafter 10cap testing with about an 80%>85% of the capsules onpassing rate. 10cap testing is done on “I”the plant(s) harvestedselections have had about a 99% passinghave visible seed in therate.tips of the capsules four orThe “drum test” consists of placing themore weeks after the idealfingers from one hand about ½ inch fromharvest time. The “I”the center of the main stem and thenrating is used for all of thestriking the stem alternately with one fingercapsules on the plant.and then the other finger in rapid‘+’ and ‘−’ modifiers cansuccession. The human ear can perceivebe used.degree of rattling over a range. IND isdefined as having no rattle. Degree ofrattle in this test correlates with loss ofincreasing amounts of seed as capsulesare exposed to weather conditions.COMMENTS: the ratings above shouldbe made under normal conditions (600 mmof annual rainfall and 30 kg/ha of nitrogen)through high moisture/fertility conditions.In drought or very low fertility conditions, ithas been observed that there is less seedretention. In addition, high populationsmay lead to low moisture or fertility,causing less seed retention. If unusualenvironmental conditions are present, theeffects should be taken into considerationprior to rating.

CharacterRatingMethodology(22) SHAKERS37 = 71.1 %See CAPSULE LENGTH FROM 10CAPSHATTER(All experimentalTEST (Character No. 17) for collection ofRESISTANCE FROMnurseries, 1997-2011)capsules. The capsules should be dried10cap TESTValue based on theand inverted. The capsules and any seedThe amount of seedaverage of a minimum ofthat has fallen out should then be placed inretention after thethree samples of theflasks on a reciprocal shaker with a 3.8 cmcapsules are dry,percentage of seedstroke with 250 strokes/min for 10 minutesinverted, and putretained in 10 capsules(see U.S. Pat. No. 6,100,452). The seedthrough a shaker (10(unit of measure: Actualthat comes out of the capsules should becapsule sample)Number expressed asweighed as ‘out seed.’ The retained seedpercentage)should be threshed out of the capsulesDistribution within Sesacoand weighed to compute the ‘total seed’.based on 10cap test in allThe shaker shatter resistance is computednurseries in 1997-2002as a percentage as follows: (total seed −(Total number of linesout seed)/total seed.tested = 1,613 with 8,285The 10 capsules can be sampled fromsamples)physiological maturity through completelow = 0; high = 100drydown without an effect on this character1 = <20; 12.9%for shatter resistant types. When taking2 = <40; 6.9 %capsules after drydown, only capsules with3 = <60; 23.4%all their seed are taken. Thus, this test4 = <80; 47.7%cannot be done on shattering lines after5 = >79.9; 9.2%drydown.avg. = 55.9%, std = 23.9COMMENTS: The ratings above shouldbe made under normal conditions throughhigh moisture/fertility conditions. Indrought or very low fertility conditions, ithas been observed that there is less seedretention. In additions, high populationsmay lead to low moisture or fertilitycausing there to be less seed retention. Ifunusual environmental conditions arepresent, the effects should be taken intoconsideration prior to rating. Lines withshaker shatter resistance >64.9% areknown as non-dehiscent lines (see U.S.Pat. No. 6,100,452).(23) CAPSULES37 = SRThe rating is based on visualSHATTERING TYPE(All crops, all nurseries)observations as to seed retention as theAmount of seedSubjective rating based onplants remain standing in the field withoutretention in a line orthe following values:shocking.plantSUS = Super-shatteringGS plants can be identified while the(<2 visual seed retention-plant is putting on capsules or at drydownequates to <25%)because the carpels in the capsules do notSHA = Shattering (<4form false membranes. There are plantsvisual seed retention-that will have capsules with falseequates to <50%)membranes on the lower and upper nodesSSH = Semi-shattering (4-but most of the capsules show no false6 visual seed retention-membranes.equates to 50 to 75%)ID plants can be identified during theSR = Shatter resistant (agrowing season in that they have enationsnumeric rating >6 visualon the bottoms of the leaves. At drydownseed retention without idthey are more difficult to distinguish fromor gs alleles-equates toother lines that have closed capsules>75%; an alphabetical(other than GS). There is less of a suturerating of V, W, or I)than other capsule types.ID = IndehiscentSUS, SHA, SSH, and SR are defined by(presence of id/id withVISUAL SEED RETENTION (Charactercapsule closed)No. 21).IDO = IndehiscentCOMMENTS: Most environmental(presence of id/id withfactors do not have much of an effect oncapsule open at tip)capsule shattering type other than to makeGS = Seamlessit more difficult to distinguish in the overlap(presence of gs/gs withzone. Generally, higher moisture, highercapsule closed)fertility, and lower populations willGSO = Seamlessdecrease the shattering a small amount-(presence of gs/gs withless than 10%.capsule open at tip)The wind can have a large effect indecreasing the amount of seed retention.Rain, dew and fog can also reduce seedretention.(24) NON-DEHISCENTS37 = NDLines are designated as ND only after theyTEST(All crops, all nurseries)have undergone a minimum of 3 shakerA line that has passedObjective rating based onshatter resistance tests. In order to bethe non-dehiscent testthe following values:considered an ND variety, the line mustof having shaker shatterND = Non-dehiscent linepass the ND threshold in multiple nurseriesresistance > 64.9% isXX = Line that does notfor multiple years.considered an ND linepass the non-dehiscentin accordance with U.S.testPat. No. 6,100,452.ND distribution withinSesaco based on 10captest in all nurseries in1997-2006(Total number of samplestested = 10.905)ND = 53.6%XX = 46.4%(25) IMPROVED NON-S37 = 7.29This rating is used for a plot or field thatDEHISCENT VISUAL(Uvalde nursery, 2011)is being evaluated.RATINGS37= 7.22The data is taken four or more weeksAmount of seed in most(Lorenzo nurseryc, 2010)after the ideal harvest time. See DAYSof the capsules in theValue based on theTO DIRECT HARVEST (Character No.plants in a plot four oraverage of a minimum of30). Estimate the percentage of capsulesmore weeks after thethree plots of a subjectivethat have visible seed at the top. In theideal harvest time.rating based on thebeginning in order to develop an eye forpercentage of capsulesthe rating, the evaluator should observe allwith visible seed retentionof the capsules and rate each of them; get8 < 100%a count of those with visible seeds and a7 < 85%count of total capsules; and compute a6 < 70%percentage. Once the evaluator is skilled,5 > 55%there is no need to count the capsules.Z < 55%There is a very high correlation between‘*’, ‘+’, ‘−’ modifiersthis rating upon visual evaluation and thecan be used. Foramount of rattling generated by the “drumaverages, 0.5 is added fortest” defined above.a ‘*’, 0.33 is added for aAlthough retention can vary from plant‘+’, and 0.33 is subtractedto plant and even within a plant, the overallfor a ‘−’ e.g., “7+” = 7.33.rating is correlatable with IND.(Total number of linesIn crossing between lines, in earlytested = 288 with 801generations there is a segregation of INDsamples in 2006)plants and non-IND plants. In this caselow = 2.97; high = 7.33the plot is given a rating of the majority of1 = <6,0; 2.1%plants while the plants selected can have a2 = <6.5; 20.8%higher rating, which is reflected in VISUAL3 = <7.0; 13.2%SEED RETENTION. The ratings that are4 = <7.5; 63.9%cited in this character are for plots, but5 = >7.5; 0%ratings of 7 or 8 are only given if over 90%avg. = 6.77, std = 0.54of the plants have the higher rating.Note: The percentage oflines between 7.0 and 7.6is very high becauseSesaco has established anew threshold for a newvariety of IND >6.9 andonly lines that are IND orsegregating IND are rated.(26) IMPROVED NON-S37 = INDVarieties were designated as IND afterDEHISCENCE TEST(All crops, aII nurseries)they demonstrated the definedAn ND line that passesSubjective rating based oncharacteristics with statistically significantthe rattle test and has athe following values:data.visual IND rating >6.99IND = Improved Non-is considered IND. Adehiscent linemethod for traditionalZZ = Line that does notbreeding of an IND linepass the improved non-is described in U.S.dehiscent testPat. 8,080,707. NDDistribution within Sesacoand IND lines shouldbased on visual IND (Totalnot have id or gsnumber of lines tested =alleles.1,934 in all nurseries from2005 to 2007)IND = 9.5%ZZ = 90.5%(27) DAYS TOS37 = 43 daysThe vegetative phase in sesame is fromFLOWERING(Uvalde nursery, 2011)the time of planting to the start ofNumber of days fromValue based on theflowering.planting unto 50% of theaverage of a minimum ofThis data is taken as a date and laterplants are floweringthree plots of the numberconverted to number of days. Flowering isof days (unit of measure:defined as flowers that are open-notdays)buds.Distribution within SesacoCOMMENTS: flowering can bebased on lines in Uvaldeaccelerated by drought and it can benursery in 2000-2001delayed by higher moisture and/or fertility.(Total number of samplesHigher heat units will decrease the days totested = 1831)flowering.low = 33 days; high = 89Some lines are photosensitive and willdaysonly begin flowering at a certain number of1 = <44.2 days; 87.9%hours of daylight.2 = <55.4 days; 7.8%Start of flowering does not always3 = <66.6 days; 2.4%equate to start of capsule formation. Many4 = <77.8 days; 1.7%lines will flower and not set capsules from5 = >77.7 days; 0.2%the first flowers.avg. = 40.9 days, std = 6.3(28) DAYS TOS37= 81 daysThe reproductive phase of sesame isFLOWER(Uvalde nursery, 2011)from the start to the end of flowering.TERMINATIONValue based on theThis data is taken as a date and laterNumber of days fromaverage of a minimum ofconverted to number of days. Flowering isplanting until 90% of thethree plots of the numberdefined as flowers that are open-notplants have stoppedof days (unit of measure:buds. At the end of the flowering period,floweringdays)the rate that a plant puts on open flowersDistribution within Sesacois reduced. Thus, there can be more thanbased on lines in Uvalde10% of plants with buds and still havenursery in 2000-2001reached this measure since there will not(Total number of samplesbe more than 10% with open flowers ontested = 2668)any one day.low = 61 days; high = 114The measure is based on the number ofdaysplants and not the number of flowering1 = <71.6 days; 21.1%heads, The branches will stop flowering2 = <82.2 days; 61.5%before the main stem; and thus the plot will3 = <92.8 days; 15.9%appear like there are more plants not4 = <103.4 days; 0.8%flowering,5 = >103.3 days; 0.8%COMMENTS: flower termination canavg. = 77.1 days, std = 6.9be accelerated by lower moisture and/orfertility, and it can be delayed by highermoisture and/or fertility. Higher heat unitswill decrease the DAYS TO FLOWERTERMINATION. It is known that there arelines that stop flowering sooner thanexpected in northern latitudes, but it is notknown if this is due to a shorterphotoperiod or cool temperatures.(29) DAYS TOS37 = 103 daysThe ripening phase of sesame is fromPHYSIOLOGICAL(Uvalde nursery, 2011)the end of flowering until physiologicalMATURITYValue based on thematurity.Number of days fromaverage of a minimum ofThis data is taken as a date and laterplanting until 50% of thethree plots of the numberconverted to number of days. Physiologicalplants reachof days (unit of measure:maturity (PM) is defined as the point atphysiological maturitydays)which ¾ of the capsules have seed withDistribution rvithin Sesacofinal color. In most lines, the seed will alsobased on lines in Uvaldehave a seed line and tip that are dark.nursery in 2000-2001COMMENTS: The concept of(Total number of samplesphysiological maturity in sesame wastested = 2374)developed by M.L. Kinman (personallow = 77 days; high = 110communication) based on the concept ofdaysdetermining the optimum time to cut a1 = <89.6 days; 16.8%plant and still harvest 95-99% of the2 = <102.2 days; 58.0%potential yield. When the seed has final3 = <114.8 days; 23.6%color, the seed can germinate under the4 = <127.4 days; 1.4%proper conditions. If the plant is cut at5 = >127.3 days; 0.2%physiological maturity, most of the seedavg. = 97.1 days, std = 7.1above the ¾ mark will go to final color andare mature enough to germinate; but willnot have as much seed weight. Since ineven a fully mature plant, there is lessseed weight made at the top of the plant,this loss of seed weight does not seriouslyaffect the potential seed weight of theplant.Although present harvest methods letthe plants mature and go to completedrydown, PM is important because afterthat point, the crop is less susceptible toyield loss due to frost or disease. The PMis also important if the crop is to beswathed or harvest aids are to be applied.Physiological maturity can beaccelerated by lower moisture and/orfertility, and it can be delayed by highermoisture and/or fertility. Higher heat unitswill decrease the days to physiologicalmaturity. Cool weather can delayphysiological maturity.(30) DAYS TO DIRECTS37 = NTThe drying phase of sesame is fromHARVESTValue based on thephysiological maturity until direct harvest.Number of days fromaverage of a minimum ofThis data is taken as a date and laterplanting until there isthree plots of the numberconverted to number of days. Directenough drydown forof days (unit of measure:harvest is defined as the date at which thedirect harvestDistribution within Sesacoplants are dry enough for combining seeddays)based on lines in allat 6% or less moisture. Over 99% of thenurseries from 2004sesame in the world is harvested by handthrough 2006before the plant completely dries down.(Total number of samplesThe plants should be dry below wheretested = 1,998)the cutter bar of the combine will hit thelow = 103 days; high = 161plants. In many lines, 15-20 cm from thedaysground can be green without an effect on1 = <114.6 days; 3.3%the moisture of the seed. In taking the2 = <126.2 days; 13.3%data on a plot, the plants at the aisle have3 = <137.8 days; 32.1%more moisture and fertility available and4 = <149.4 days; 44.2%will drydown later. The same is true for5 = >149.3 days; 7.2%plants within the plot that have a gap ofavg. = 136.7 days, std =half a meter between plants. These plants10.3should be disregarded in taking the data.In addition, there are few farmer fields thatdry down uniformly because of varyingsoils and moisture. There is a certainamount of green that can be combined andstill attain the proper moisture. Theamount of green allowable is alsodependent on the humidity at the day ofcombining-the lower the humidity thehigher the amount of allowable green.COMMENTS: This date is the mostvariable in the number of days that definethe phenology of sesame because weatheris so important. In dry years with littlerainfall, the plants will run out of moisturesooner and will dry down faster than inyears with more rainfall. Fields that areirrigated by pivots will generally dry downfaster than fields with flood or furrowirrigation because pivots do not providedeep moisture. Fields with less fertility willdrydown faster than fields with high fertility.Fields with high populations will dry downfaster than fields with low populations. Inlow moisture situations lines with a strongtaproot will dry down later than lines withmostly shallow fibrous roots.(31) LODGINGS37 = NTThe data is taken after physiologicalTOLERANCEAverage of a minimum ofmaturity (see DAYS TO PHYSIOLOGICALThe amount of lodgingthree plots of a subjectiveMATURITY-Character No. 29) andrating based on thebefore direct harvest (see DAYS TOfollowing values:DIRECT HARVEST-Character No. 30).0 to 8 ratingLodging that occurs after direct harvest in8 = no lodgingnurseries would not be a factor in7 = Less than 5% of plantscommercial sesame,lodgedThere are three types of lodging: where4 = 50 % of plants lodgedthe plants break at the stem, where the1 = All plants lodgedplants bend over but do not break, andIntermediate values arewhere the plants uproot and bend over.used.When a plant breaks over, it will rarelyDistribution within Sesacoproduce any new seed, and the existingbased on lines in Uvaldeseed may or may not mature. It there is aand Lorenzo nurseries intotal break, there is no hope, but if there is2007still some active stem translocation(Total number of samplesthrough the break, there can be some yieldtested = 1061)recovery. The main causes for uprootinglow = 1.0; high = 8.0of plants are shallow root systems and1 = <2.4; 3,1%fields that have just been irrigated, creating2 = <3.8; 6.9%a soft layer of soil, When a plant bends3 = <5.2; 22,6%over early in development, some lines4 = <6,6; 18.9%adapt better than others in terms of having5 = >8,0; 48.4%the main sterns turn up and continueavg. = 6.1, std = 1.7flowering. The tips of the branches areusually matted under the canopy and willrarely turn up, but new branches candevelop, As the plants go to drydown andthe weight of the moisture is lost, many ofthe bent plants will straighten up makingthe crop easier to combine.COMMENTS: The major cause oflodging is the wind. In areas where thereare constant winds such as in Oklahomaand northern Texas, the plants adjust byadding more lignin to the stems. It takes astronger wind to cause lodging than inthose areas where there are normally onlybreezes (unless there is a strong front orthunderstorm that passes through). Inareas with more root rot; the stems areweak and it takes little wind to lodge theplants.(32) SEED COLORS37 = BFThis data is taken in the laboratory withThe color of the seed(All crops, all nurseries)the same lighting for all samples. The seedcoatSubjective rating based onfrom the whole plant is used.the following values:Seed coat color is taken on matureWH = Whiteseeds. If there is any abnormalBF = Bufftermination, the colors are not quite asTN = Taneven. The color of immature seed varies.LBR = Light brownUsually light seeded lines have tan to lightGO = Goldbrown immature seed; tan, light brown,LGR = Light graygold, brown; light gray; and gray lines haveGR = Graylighter immature seed; black lines canBR = Brownhave tan, brown, or gray immature seed.RBR = Reddish brownUsually; moisture, fertility, populationBL = Blackand light intensity do not have an effect onDistribution within Sesacoseed coat color. Light colored seeds in abased on seed harvesteddrought may have a yellowish tinge. Seedsin all nurseries in 1982-in sonic lines in the tan, light brown and2001 (Total number ofgold range can change from year to yearsamples tested = 161,809)among themselves.WH = 0.8%BF = 74.8%TN = 9.0%LBR = 1.4%GO= 1.5%LGR = 0.6%GR = 1.4%BR = 6.5%RBR = 0.6%BL = 3.5%(33) SEED WEIGHT −S37 = 0.284 gPlants that are being carried further in100 SEEDS FROM(All experimentalresearch are selected individually or inTHE ENTIRE PLANTnurseries, 1997-2012)bulk. The seed is then threshed andWeight of 100 seedsValue based on thecleaned. Count out 100 seeds and weigh.taken from the entireaverage of a minimum ofThe seed must be dry.plant.three samples of theCOMMENTS: The weight increasesweight of 100 seeds fromwith higher moisture/fertility. Generally,the 10 capsules (unit ofthe weight of the seed from the whole plantweight: grams)is lighter than the seed weight taken fromDistribution within Sesacothe 10cap test. In previous patents, thebased on stable lines in allseed size was determined from the middlenurseries in 1997-2002of the main stem using the seed from the(Total number of lines10cap test samples. The change hastested = 820 with 2,899been made since the seed from the entiresamples)plant is a better reflection of the size of thelow = 0.200 g; high =seed delivered to processors.0.455g1 = <0.251 g; 10.1%2 = <0.302 g; 48.4%3 = <0.353 g; 34.0%4 = <0.404 g; 7.2%5 = >0.403 g; 0.2%avg. = 0.298 g, std = 0.04(34) COMPOSITE KILLS37 = 6.3On the week a plot reaches PM, aTOLERANCE(All nurseries, 2011-2013)rating is assigned. The ratings are thenThe amount of plantsAverage of a minimum oftaken for 2 additional weeks. The threekilled by root rots in thethree plots of a subjectiveratings are averaged for a final kill rating.Sesaco nurseriesrating based on theFor example, if a plot has a final kill of 766,following values; Ratingsthe average for the plot will be 6.33. Whenare based on the numbera value of 1 or 2 is assigned, there are noof plants killed in a plot.additional ratings and there is noBefore physiologicalaveraging.maturity (PM), theThere are three root diseases that affectfollowing ratings are used:sesame in Texas:Fusarium oxysporum,1 = >90% kill before DAYSMacrophomina phaseoli, andPhytophthoraTO FLOWERINGparasitica. Between 1988 and the present,TERMINATION (Characterspores of these three have beenNo. 28)accumulated in one small area (1 square2 = >90% kill betweenkm) north of Uvalde, and thus it is anDAYS TO FLOWERINGexcellent screening area for the diseases.TERMINATION (CharacterAlthough each root rot disease attacksNo. 28) and DAYS TOsesame in a different way and may resultPHYSIOLOGICALin different symptoms, no effort is made toMATURITY (Character No.definitively determine which disease is the29)etiological agent for the affected plants.After PM, the followingPathological screenings in the past haveratings are used:found all 3 pathogens present in dead3 = > 90% killplants.4 = 50 to 89% killCOMMENTS: Normally, the ratings will5 = 25 to 49% killdecrease a maximum of one value per6 = 10 to 24% killweek. There is an overlap between any7 = less than 10% killtwo ratings, but this is overcome to a8 = no killcertain extent by using three ratings over 2Distribution within Sesacoweeks.based on lines in UvaldeThe amount of kill is usually increasednursery in 2000-2001with any type of stress to the plants.(Total number of samplesDrought can increase the amount oftested = 3045)Macrophomina; too much water canlow = 1.00; high = 8.00increase the amount ofPhytophthora; high1 = <1.6; 1.7%temperatures and humidity can increase2 = <3.2; 16.7%the amount ofFusariumandPhytophthora.3 = <4.8; 38.7%High population can increase all three4 = <6.4; 31.2%diseases.5 = >6.3; 11.6%The ratings for any one year can beavg. = 4.52, std = 1.49used to compare lines grown in that year,but should not be used to compare linesgrown in different years. The amount ofdisease in any one year is highlydependent on moisture, humidity, andtemperatures.(35) TOLERANCE TOS37 = NTRatings can be done in several ways:FUSARIUMWILT(F.Average of a minimum of1. Take ratings after the disease is nooxysporum)three plots of a subjectivelonger increasingAmount of tolerance torating based on the2. Take ratings on consecutive weeksFusariumwiltfollowing values:until disease is no longer increasing and0 to 8 scale of theaverage ratings.% of infected plants3. Take periodic ratings and average8 = Zero diseaseratings.7 = <10% infectedCOMMENTS:Fusariumhas been a4 = 50% infectedproblem in South Texas, particularly on1 = >90% infectedfields that have been planted with sesame0 = all infectedbefore. Normally, only the COMPOSITEIntermediate values areKILL TOLERANCE (Character No. 34)used.rating is taken.NT = not testedNEC = no economicdamage-not enoughdisease to do ratings(36) TOLERANCE TOS37 = NTSee Methodology for TOLERANCE TOPHYTOPFITHORASubjective ratingFUSARIUMWILT (Character No. 35)STEM ROT (P.See Values forFusariumCOMMENTS:Phytophthorahas beenparasitica)a problem in Arizona and Texas,Amount of tolerance toparticularly on fields that have been over-Phytophthorastem rotirrigated. Normally, only the COMPOSITEKILL TOLERANCE (Character No. 34)rating is taken.(37) TOLERANCE TOS37 = NTSee Methodology for TOLERANCE TOCHARCOAL ROTSubjective ratingFUSARIUMWILT (Character No. 35)(MacrophominaSee Values forFusariumCOMMENTS:Macrophominahas beenphaseoli)a problem in Arizona and Texas,Amount of tolerance toparticularly on fields that go into a drought.Charcoal rotNormally, only the COMPOSITE KILLTOLERANCE (Character No. 34) rating istaken.(38) TOLERANCE TOS37 = 6.3See Methodology for TOLERANCE TOBACTERIAL BLACK(Lorenzo nursery, 2010)FUSARIUMWILT (Character No. 35)ROT (PseudomonasAverage of a minimum ofCOMMENTS: This disease occurssesami)three plots of a subjectiveoccasionally when there is continual rainyAmount of tolerance torating based on theweather with few clouds. In most years,bacterial black rotfollowing values:the disease abates once the weather0 to 8 scale of thechanges. No economic damage has been% of infected plantsnoticed.8 = Zero disease7 = <10% infected4 = 50% infected1 = >90% infected0 = all infectedIntermediate values areused.NT = not testedNEC = no economicdamage-not enoughdisease to do ratingsDistribution within Sesacobased on lines in Uvaldenursery in 2004(Total number of samplestested = 593)low = 4.00; high = 8.001 = <2.4; 0.0%2 = <3.8; 0.0%3 = <5.2; 8.6%4 = <6.6; 16.0%5 = >6.5; 75.4%avg. = 7.13, std = 1.00(39) TOLERANCE TOS37 = 4.0Ratings can be done in several ways:SILVERLEAF(Puerto Rico nursery.1. Take ratings after the insects are noWHITEFLY (Bernisia2012)dlonger increasing.argentifolii)Average of a minimum of2. Take ratings on consecutive weeksAmount of tolerance tothree plots of a subjectiveuntil insects are no longer increasing andthe silverleaf whiteflyrating based on theaverage ratings.following values:3. Take periodic ratings and average0 to 8 scale of theratings.% of infected plantsCOMMENTS: there have been very0 to 8 scalefew years (1991-1995) where the8 = Zero insectsincidence of silverleaf whitefly has affected7 = Few insectsnurseries or commercial crops. In most4 = Many insectsyears, a few whiteflies can be seen in the1 = Insects killing thesesame with no economic damage.plantsIn the middle 1990s, the USDA beganIntermediate values areintroducing naturalpredators reduced theused.silverleaf whitefly in the Uvalde area. It isNT = not testednot known if the predators reduced theNEC = no economiceffects of the whitefly or there is a naturaldamage-no damagetolerance to whitefly in the currentinsects to do ratingsvarieties.Higher tempratures decrease thenumber of days between generations.There are indications that higher moistureand fertility increase the incidence ofwhiteflies, but there is no definitive data.The sweet potato whitefly (Bemisiatabaci) has been observed in nurseriessince 1978 without any economic damage.(40) TOLERANCE TOS37 = NTSee Methodology for TOLERANCE TOGREEN PEACHSubjective rating ; seeSILVERLEAF WHITEFLY (Character No.APHIDS (MyzusValues for Whitefly39)persicae)Distribution within SesacoCOMMENTS: there have been veryAmount of tolerance tobased on lines in Uvaldesew years (1990-1995) where thethe green peach aphidnursery in 2004incidence of green peach aphid has(Total number of samplesaffected nurseries or commercial crops. Intested = 412)most years, a few aphids can be seen inlow = 1,00; high = 8.00the sesame with no economic damage.1 = <2.4; 1.0%There have been many years in West2 = <3.8; 0.5%Texas when the cotton aphid has3 = <5.2; 10.7%decimated the cotton and did not build up4 = <6.6; 4.8%on adjacent sesame fields.5 = >6.5; 83.0%Higher moisture and fertility increaseavg. = 7.04, std = 1.35the susceptibility to aphids.(41) TOLERANCE TOS37 = NTSee Methodology for TOLERANCE TOPOD BORERSSubjective rating; seeSILVERLEAF WHITEFLY (Character No.(Heitothisspp.)Values for Whitefly39)Amount of tolerance toCOMMENTS: there have been verypod borersfew years (1985) where the incidence ofHetiothishas affected nurseries orcommercial crops, In most years, a fewborers can be seen in the sesame with noeconomic damage.(42) TOLERANCE TOS37 = NTSee Methodology for TOLERANCE TOARMY WORMSSubjective rating; seeSILVERLEAF WHITEFLY (Character No.(Spodopteraspp.)Values for Whitefly39)Amount of tolerance toCOMMENTS: there have been veryarmy wormsfew years (1984-1987) where theincidence ofSpodopterahas affectedcommercial crops in Arizona. In Texas,army worms have decimated cotton andalfalfa fields next to sesame without anydamage to the sesame. It is not known ifthe Arizona army worm is different fromthe Texas army worm.(43) TOLERANCE TOS37 = NTSee Methodology for TOLERANCE TOCABBAGE LOOPERS(Lorenzo nursery 2007)SILVERLEAF WHITEFLY (Character No.(Pieris rapae)Subjective rating ; see39)Amount of tolerance tovalues for WhiteflyCOMMENTS: there have been verycabbage loopersfew years (1992-1993) where theincidence of cabbage loopers has affectednurseries. In commercial sesame, cabbageloopers have been observed with noeconomic damage.(44) PRESENCE OFS37 = PY/PYin the homogygous condition. ThePYGMY ALLELES(All crops; all nurseries)pygmy allele (py) reduces the HEIGHT OFThe pygmy allele is apy/py = homozygousTHE PLANT (Character No. 5), thenew recessive genepygmy allelesHEIGHT OF THE FIRST CAPSULEthat affects the growthPY/py = heterozygous(Character No. 6); and the AVERAGEof the sesame plant.pygmy allelesINTERNODE LENGTH WITHIN CAPSULEPY/PY= normal (noZONE (Character No. 9). In thepygmy alleles)heterozygous state, there are noDistribution within Sesacoreductions in the characters. In a crossbased on stable lines inbetween a homozygous pygmy and athe collection as of 2009normal, the pygmy allele is a recessive(Total number of lines =gene that will not show the shorter heights40,715)and internode lengths until segregating inpy/py = 145the F2 generation, with no intermediatesPY/py = 629between the pygmy and the normal line. ANormal = 39,941homozygous pygmy selected in the F2,from the F3 generation on is pure in itseffects on the three characters. Withinpygmy lines there are differences in the 3characters, but all of the pygmies differfrom the normal lines, The name “pygmy”was chosen because these lines areshorter than dwarf lines that have been inthe world germplasm for many years. Thedwarf lines share the same threecharacters, but there are intermediates inthe F2 generation and rarely any plants asshort as the original dwarf.(45) SEED OILS37 = 53.2%The data is taken after the seed hasCONTENT(Uvalde nursery, 2010)been cleaned of all extraneous materialThe percentage of oil in51.9%and is less than 6% moisture.the seed.(Uvalde nursery, 2011)There are two methodologies forValue based on thedetermining oil content; laboratory analysisaverage of a minimum ofas perscribed in the procedures of thethree samples of theAmerican Oil Chemists' Society (AOCS) orpeercentage of oil in thewith a nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)seed (unit of measure:machine. The AOCS procedure does notActual number expressedremove all of the oil from the seed andas a percentage.)thus has a lower content than with theDistribution within SesacoNMR procedure. The NMR procedure isbased on lines in Uvaldepreferred because (1) it is non-destructivenursery in 2010-2011and (2) oil processors use that procedure.(Total number of samplestested = 2,015)low = 36.0; high = 59.31 = <45; 0.8%2 = <48; 4.8%3 = <51; 27.4%4 = <54; 47.4%5 = >53.9; 19.6%avg. = 51.92, std = 2.52aUvalde nursery planted north of Uvalde, Texas (latitude 29° 22′ north, longitude 99° 47′ west, 226 m elev) in middle to late May to early June from 1988 to the present; mean rainfall is 608 mm annually with a mean of 253 mm during the growing season; temperatures range from an average low of 3° C. and an average high of 17° C. in January to an average low of 22° C. and an average high of 37° C. in July. The nursery was planted on 96 cm beds from 1988 to 1997 and on 76 cm beds from 1998 to the present. The nursery was pre-irrigated and has had 2-3 post-plant irrigations depending on rainfall. The fertility has varied from 30-60 units of nitrogen.bRio Rio Hondo nursery planted east of Rio Hondo, Texas (latitude 26° 14′ north, longitude 97° 34′ west, 8 m elev) in early April from 2010 to the present, mean rainfall is 715 mm annually with a mean of 323 mm during the growing season; temperatures range from an average low of 9° C. and an average high of 20° C. in January to an average low of 24° C. and an average high of 35° C. in July. The nursery was planted on 81 cm beds. The nursery was rainfed, The fertility was 80 units of nitrogen.cLorenzo nursery planted southeast of Lubbock, Texas (latitude 33° 40′ north, longitude 101° 49′ west, 1000 m elev) in mid-June from 2004 to the present; mean rainfall is 483 mm annually with a mean of 320 mm during the growing season; temperatures range from an average low of −4° C. and an average high of 11° C. in January to an average low of 20° C. and an average high of 33° C. in July. The nursery was planted on 101 cm beds. The nursery was miffed. The fertility was 30 units of nitrogen.dPuerto Rico nursery planted east of Ponce, Puerto Rico (latitude 18° 15′ north, ongitude 66° 30′ west, 50 m elev) in December; mean rainfall is 963 mm annually with a mean of 0 mm during the growing season; temperatures range from an average low of 19° C. and an average high of 30° C. in January to an average low of 23° C. and an average high of 33° C. in July. The nursery was planted on 101 cm beds. The nursery had drip irrigation. The fertility was 60 units of nitrogen.

In developing sesame varieties for the United States, there are eight characters that are desirable for successful crops: SHAKER SHATTER RESISTANCE (Character No. 22), IMPROVED NON-DEHISCENT VISUAL RATING (Character No. 25), COMPOSITE KILL TOLERANCE (Character No. 34), DAYS TO PHYSIOLOGICAL MATURITY (Character No. 29), YIELD AT DRYDOWN (Character 10), SEED COLOR (Character No. 32), SEED WEIGHT—100 SEEDS FROM THE ENTIRE PLANT (Character No. 33), and SEED OIL CONTENT (Character No. 45). The first four characters contribute to YIELD AT DRYDOWN, which is the most important economic factor normally considered by a farmer in the selection of a variety. The last three characters determine the market value of the seed.

SHAKER SHATTER RESISTANCE and IMPROVED NON-DEHISCENT VISUAL RATING determine how well the plants will retain the seed while they are drying down in adverse weather.

COMPOSITE KILL TOLERANCE determines whether the plants can finish their cycle and have the optimum seed fill.

DAYS TO PHYSIOLOGICAL MATURITY determines how far north and to which elevation the varieties can be grown.

In improving the characters, the YIELD AT DRYDOWN has to be comparable to or better than current varieties, or provide a beneficial improvement for a particular geographical or market niche.

In the United States and Europe, the SEED COLOR is important since over 95% of the market requires white or buff seed. There are limited markets for gold and black seed in the Far East. All other colors can only be used in the oil market.

SEED WEIGHT—100 SEEDS FROM THE ENTIRE PLANT determines the market for the seed. Lack of Composite kill Tolerance can reduce SEED WEIGHT—100 SEEDS FROM THE ENTIRE PLANT. In parts of the United States where there is little rain in dry years, the lack of moisture can reduce the SEED WEIGHT—100 SEEDS FROM THE ENTIRE PLANT.

SEED OIL CONTENT determines the market for the seed. Lack of Composite kill Tolerance can reduce SEED OIL CONTENT. Low fertility in terms of nitrogen raises SEED OIL CONTENT and high fertility lowers SEED OIL CONTENT.

There are other characters important in developing commercial sesame varieties explained in Langham, D. R. and T. Wiemers, 2002. “Progress in mechanizing sesame in the US through breeding”, In: J. Janick and A. Whipkey (ed.),Trends in new crops and new uses, ASHS Press, Alexandria, Va. BRANCHING STYLE (Character No. 1), HEIGHT OF PLANT (Character No. 5) and HEIGHT OF FIRST CAPSULE (Character No. 6) are important in combining. CAPSULE ZONE LENGTH (Character No. 7), NUMBER OF CAPSULE NODES (Character No. 8), AVERAGE INTERNODE LENGTH WITHIN CAPSULE ZONE (Character No. 9), and SEED WEIGHT PER CAPSULE (Character No. 18) are important in creating potential YIELD AT DRYDOWN (Character No. 10). LEAF DIMENSIONS (Characters No. 12, 13, 14, and 15) are important in determining optimum populations.

NUMBER OF CAPSULES PER LEAF AXIL (Character No. 2), NUMBER OF CARPELS PER CAPSULE (Character No. 16), CAPSULE LENGTH (Character No. 17), CAPSULE WEIGHT PER CAPSULE (Character No. 19), and CAPSULE WEIGHT PER CM OF CAPSULE (Character No. 20) are important in breeding for VISUAL SEED RETENTION (Character No. 21) and IMPROVED NON-DEHISCENT VISUAL RATING (Character No. 25), which lead to testing for SHAKER SHATTER RESISTANCE (Character No. 22) and determining the CAPSULE SHATTERING TYPE (Character No. 23), NON-DEHISCENT TEST (Character 24) and IMPROVED NON-DEHISCENT TEST (Character No. 26).

DAYS TO FLOWERING (Character No. 27), DAYS TO FLOWER TERMINATION (Character No. 28), DAYS TO PHYSIOLOGICAL MATURITY (Character No. 29) and MATURITY CLASS (Character No. 3) are highly correlated and important in determining the phenology and geographical range for the variety.

DAYS TO DIRECT HARVEST (Character No. 30) is important in that once the plants reach physiological maturity there is no weather event that will increase yield and many weather events that may substantially lower the yield. A shorter drying phase increases yield. Presently, harvest aids have been approved by the Environmental Protection Agency for use on sesame. The harvest aids are applied at physiological maturity leading to early drydown. The days to direct harvest is not as important as in the past. PLANT PHENOTYPE (Character No. 4) is a summary character of characters 1, 2, and 3 that allows an overall visualization of the line.

TOLERANCE TO DROUGHT (Character No. 11) may reduce yield and seed weight. Even though there was a drought in the growing areas in 2006, there has not been a drought in nurseries planted since 2000 because of irrigation. LODGING TOLERANCE (Character No. 31) is important in years when there are high winds in the growing areas. The tolerance characters (Characters No. 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, and 43) are important in reducing the losses from diseases and pests.

Using selected characters from Table II, Table III provides a character differentiation between S37 and name cultivars from all over the world.

Table III differentiates S37 from all other cultivars and varieties except S27, S32, S33, S35, S36, S38, and S39. Table IV provides additional data that separates S37 from S27, S32, S33, S35, S36, S37, and S39.

The essential difference between S37 and the other branched varieties are the HEIGHT OF PLANT and CAPSULE ZONE LENGTH. S37 is taller than the other varieties and has a longer capsule zone.

Table V shows all the characters from Table II for S37 and the current branched varieties S28, S32, S35, S36, S38, and S39. The table is in terms of all of the characters listed in Table II. The major differences in Table V are indicated in the “Dif” column by a “C” for commercially important differences and an “M” for morphological differences.

As stated earlier, in developing sesame varieties for the United States, there are eight important characters: SHAKER SHATTER RESISTANCE (Character No. 22), IMPROVED NON-DEHISCENT VISUAL RATING (Character No. 25), COMPOSITE KILL TOLERANCE (Character No. 34), DAYS TO PHYSIOLOGICAL MATURITY (Character No. 29), YIELD AT DRYDOWN (Character No. 10), SEED COLOR (Character No. 32), SEED WEIGHT—100 SEEDS FROM ENTIRE PLANT (Character No. 33), and SEED OIL CONTENT (Character No. 45). These characters will be discussed first comparing S37 to Sesaco varieties (S28, S30, S32, S34, S35, S36, S38, and S39 which are the current varieties used in the United States), followed by other characters that differentiate S37. The data is based on planting the varieties side by side with five replications in Uvalde and two in Lorenzo.

FIG. 2provides the SHAKER SHATTER RESISTANCE (Character No. 22) of various Sesaco sesame varieties using data from 1997 through 2011. SHAKER SHATTER RESISTANCE represents the amount of seed that is retained by the plant several months after being dry in the field. This standard was developed as a minimum standard in 1997-1998 and has proven to be a good predictor of shatter resistance. All varieties have SHAKER SHATTER RESISTANCE in the low-seventy to mid-eighty percent level.

S37 has 71.1% SHAKER SHATTER RESISTANCE, which is above the 65% threshold established in U.S. Pat. No. 6,100,452 to qualify S37 as a non-dehiscent variety.

FIG. 3provides the IMPROVED NON-DEHISCENT VISUAL RATING (Character No. 25) of the patented varieties (data from Uvalde and Lorenzo nurseries, 2011). When the plants have reached DAYS TO DIRECT HARVEST (Character No. 30), the plants are holding more than the seed represented by the SHAKER SHATTER RESISTANCE percentage. If there is no rain, fog, dew, or wind during the drying phase, the non-dehiscent plants will be retaining almost all of their seed for the combine. However, the predominant weather in the harvest season in the United States includes rain, fog, dew, and wind. The IMPROVED NON-DEHISCENT VISUAL RATING sets a new benchmark for selecting varieties based on a rating done 4 weeks after DAYS TO DIRECT HARVEST (the ideal harvest time).

S37 exhibited an IMPROVED NON-DEHISCENT VISUAL RATING of 7.29 (data from Uvalde nursery, 2011) and 7.22 (Lorenzo nurseries, 2011) which are above the 7.0 threshold established in U.S. Pat. No. 8,080,707 to qualify S37 as an improved non-dehiscent variety.

FIG. 4provides the COMPOSITE KILL TOLERANCE (Character No. 34) of the patented varieties (data from all nurseries, 2011-2013). COMPOSITE KILL TOLERANCE is a composite rating of tolerance to three root rots:Fusarium, Phytophthora, andMacrophomina. In most years,Fusariumis the major cause of kill. When sesame is first introduced into a growing area, there are few disease problems, but over time the spores of these fungi accumulate and disease tolerance becomes important. When sesame was first introduced in Uvalde in 1988, the yields were high. As farmers planted on the same fields in subsequent years, the yields decreased.

S37 has a rating of 6.3 for COMPOSITE KILL TOLERANCE (data from Uvalde nursery, 2011) and is comparable to most of the other patented commercial varieties. Any rating above 5.67 indicates that over 90% of the plants produced good seed to the top of the plant.

FIG. 5provides the mean DAYS TO PHYSIOLOGICAL MATURITY (Character No. 29) of the current Sesaco sesame varieties (data from Uvalde nursery, 2011). In the United States, sesame is currently grown from South Texas to Central Kansas. The growing window of a crop is determined by the earliest the crop can be planted in the spring as the ground warms up, and the onset of cold weather in the fall. Current sesame varieties require about 21° C. ground temperature to establish an adequate population and night temperatures above 5° C. for normal termination. Generally, the ground is warm enough in South Texas in middle March and in Central Kansas in late May, and the night temperatures are warm enough in South Texas until the middle of November and in southern Kansas until the middle of October. The states to the east from Texa/Oklahoma/Kansas to the Atlantic Ocean are within the South Texas and Kansas extremes. Cold fronts may affect the growth of sesame, and these are more likely in northern growing areas from the middle of September on. Elevation may also affect the growing temperature. For example, moving from east of Lubbock, Tex., at the start of the Caprock toward the west, the elevations begin climbing approaching toward the Rocky Mountains. The higher the elevation, the earlier the onset of fall cold temperatures and the later the onset of spring warm temperatures. In all years, if the sesame is planted as early as temperatures allow, lines with DAYS TO PHYSIOLOGICAL MATURITY of 105 days or less will not be adversely affected by the temperatures, even in years with an early frost. Data gathered over a twenty-three year period indicates that about 96% of the time, sesame with a value of 115 or less DAYS TO PHYSIOLOGICAL MATURITY will produce a crop. Since most growing areas depend upon having a planting rain before the sesame is planted, the earlier the DAYS TO PHYSIOLOGICAL MATURITY of the variety, the more flexibility the farmers have with the planting date. Different geographical areas may have different goals due to the normal weather patterns. In South Texas, varieties with DAYS TO PHYSIOLOGICAL MATURITY of less than 110 days are generally suitable, while planting after 30 June in southern Kansas it is preferred, but not always necessary, to utilize varieties with lower DAYS TO PHYSIOLOGICAL MATURITY such as 100 days or less.

The mean DAYS TO PHYSIOLOGICAL MATURITY for S37 is 103, which allows it to be planted in all of the current sesame growing areas. Care should be taken in areas where early freezes may occur to plant S37 in at a time where it will physiologically mature prior to expected freezes.

FIG. 6provides the mean YIELD AT DRYDOWN (Character 10) of the patented varieties (testing in the Uvalde and Rio Hondo nurseries in 2013). In releasing a new variety, another important consideration is whether the yields will be comparable or better than the existing varieties.

The yield of S37 is expected to be comparable to that of prior varieties under typical growing conditions and was found to be comparable under less than ideal conditions used for testing as reported inFIG. 6. The yield data is taken close to DAYS TO DIRECT HARVEST (Character No. 30), which is the ideal time to harvest. However, weather in the fall in the sesame growing areas of the United States can prevent harvest for up to a month subjecting the crop to rain, fog, dew, and wind. Those four factors increase shattering, and wind may bring on lodging. Drought can affect yield. As reported inFIG. 6, the 2013 data from the Uvalde and Rio Hondo areas indicates That S37 with yields of 1,664 kg/ha (Uvalde nursery, 2013) and 1,490 kg/ha (Rio Hondo nursery, 2013) are comparable to current varieties.

The SEED COLOR (Character No. 32) of S37 is buff, which is suitable for most of the U.S. and world markets.

FIG. 7provides the mean SEED WEIGHT—100 SEEDS FROM THE ENTIRE PLANT (Character No. 33) of the current varieties between 1997 and 2011. A particular seed weight may be a characteristic desired by certain seed processors and end-users and commercial specifications may require a threshold seed weight.

S37 seed is lighter than the other patented varieties (0.284 grams per hundred seeds), and thus is a bit lower than most commercial specifications in the natural topping market for sesame seed, which (in the United States) often set a threshold value of 0.30 grams per hundred seed weight. However, S37 seed is suitable for the ingredient and foreign markets.

FIG. 8provides the SEED OIL CONTENT (Character No. 45) of the current varieties. The commercial oil markets generally contractually require that sesame seed contain an oil content of at least 50-52%. If the oil content is lower than the specified requirement, the contract generally penalizes the seller. While current commercial practice does not include a monetary incentive to the seller if sesame seed has a higher oil content than the contractual requirement, increasing the oil content of sesame seed may provide de facto advantages to the purchaser or user.

S37 exhibited oil contents of 53.2% and 51.9% (data from Uvalde 2010 and 2011) and thus is suitable for use as a source of sesame oil for the commercial oil market.

FIG. 9provides the TOLERANCE TO SILVERLEAF WHITEFLY (Character No. 39). This pest is a problem in areas having high temperatures and other crops that attract whiteflies, such as vegetable crops. Examples of sesame growing areas which may be subject to whitefly issues are the South Texas/Lower Rio Grande Valley region, which typically has many acres of vegetables planted, and Puerto Rico. Having tolerance to the whitefly provides a benefit to a sesame variety.

S37 has demonstrated adequate tolerance to whiteflies. Variety S26 has been used as a comparative standard for whitefly tolerance; S37 (with a rating of 4.0) had lower tolerance than S26 in testing conducted in Puerto Rico. Thus, S37 is not recommended for areas with the Silverleaf whitefly.

FIG. 10provides the TOLERANCE TO BACTERIAL BLACK ROT (Character No. 38). Bacterial black rot may occur, though rare, when there are cool, cloudy days, usually at higher elevations. While there may be little sesame acreage subject to these conditions, tolerance may still be important to some growers.

S37, with a rating of 6.3, exhibits less tolerance when these conditions are present than some previously described varieties.

S37 is taller (HEIGHT OF PLANT, character No. 5) and has a longer CAPSULE ZONE LENGTH (Character No. 7) than the current branched varieties. The Variety is not so tall that it interferes with the header reel of the combine. This extra height is correlated with a longer vegetative phase, which is an advantage in drought years.

On Mar. 13, 2014, a deposit of at least 2500 seeds of sesame plant S37 was made by Sesaco Corporation under the provisions of the Budapest Treaty with the American Type Culture Collection (ATCC), 10801 University Boulevard, Manassas, Va. 20110-2209, and the deposit was given ATCC Accession No. PTA-121089. This deposit will be maintained in the ATCC depository for a period of 30 years or 5 years after the last request or for the enforceable life of the patent, whichever is longer. Should the seeds from the sesame line S37 deposited with the American Type Culture Collection become non-viable, the deposit will be replaced by Sesaco Corporation upon request.

The foregoing invention has been described in some detail by way of illustration and characters for purposes of clarity and understanding. However, it will be obvious that certain changes and modifications may be practiced within the scope of the invention as limited only by the scope of the appended claims.