Fruit Dehiscence Patterns in Different Species of Sesamum

Subhas N. Emmi, Chaitra B. Negalur

Abstract: Fruit dehiscence is a crucial morphological and evolutionary trait influencing seed dispersal, yield efficiency, and domestication in oilseed crops. In the genus Sesamum, species exhibit diverse dehiscence mechanisms ranging from completely dehiscent to partially or indehiscent capsules. This study investigates fruit dehiscence patterns across six Sesamum species-S. indicum, S. alatum, S. radiatum, S. angustifolium, S. capense, and S. schinzianum-to characterize variation in capsule morphology, dehiscence type, and associated anatomical adaptations. Morphological and anatomical analyses revealed three major dehiscence patterns: complete loculicidal dehiscence (S. alatum, S. capense), partial apical dehiscence (S. indicum, S. radiatum), and indehiscent or tardily dehiscent capsules (S. angustifolium, S. schinzianum). The degree of lignification in the endocarp and the arrangement of dehiscence zones were strongly correlated with the mode of capsule opening. These findings contribute to understanding the evolutionary adaptations within Sesamum and have implications for breeding programs aimed at reducing seed loss in cultivated sesame.

Keywords: Sesamum, fruit dehiscence, capsule anatomy, seed dispersal, domestication

How to Cite?: Subhas N. Emmi, Chaitra B. Negalur, "Fruit Dehiscence Patterns in Different Species of Sesamum", Volume 14 Issue 11, November 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 305-306, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251105162314, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251105162314