Agromorphological Evaluation and Selection of High-performing Okra ( Abelmoschus esculentus L.) Lines for Variety Development in Burkina Faso
Abstract
Okra [ Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] is a widespread traditional vegetable in Burkina Faso, whose fruits are rich in trace elements, vitamins, fiber, and mucilage. Despite favorable soil and climatic conditions, production remains low due to socio-cultural constraints and a lack of high-performing, adapted varieties. To identify okra lines with superior agromorphologique performance and potential for varietal selection, eight lines seven from Burkina Faso (V1, V2, V3, V4, V5, V6 and V8) and one from Mali (V7) were characterized using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Data were collected on nine qualitative and sixteen quantitative traits. The results showed variability in stem, fruit, and seed characteristics. Indeed, the most significant variations in phenotypic traits were observed in stem and fruit coloration, seed weight per plant, immature fruit weight, and seed yield. Lines V3, V5, V7, and V8 exhibited desirable traits, notably earliness, large leaf size, fruit coloration, a high number of seeds per fruit, high seed weight, and high yield and could be used in a hybridization program to develop okra varieties that combine a maximum of desired characteristics. Seed yield (SY) showed the highest heritability associated with the most significant genetic gain. This combination indicates strong additive gene action, suggesting that direct selection of the best lines based on field performance will allow for rapid and significant improvement in okra productivity.