Microsatellite Marker-Driven Genetic Diversity and Breeding Potential Assessment in Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench): A Multi-parent Approach

This study investigated the genetic diversity among 38 Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) genotypes and evaluated their potential for hybrid breeding through single, double, and multi-parent crosses. Morphological diversity based on key phenotypic traits classified the cultivars into ten clusters, indicating substantial genetic diversity. The molecular diversity was assessed using 35 polymorphic microsatellite markers (SSR), identifying 91 alleles, which grouped the cultivars into ten genetically diverse clusters. Inconsistencies between morphological and molecular clustering highlighted the impact of environmental factors on trait expression. Eight genetically diverse cultivars identified from the molecular diversity study were crossed in structured mating designs to generate F-2 populations for single cross hybrids (SCH), double cross hybrids (DCH), and multi-parent cross hybrids (MPCH). Superior transgressive segregants were identified in the F-2 populations for yield-related traits, with DCH and MPCH showing higher breeding potential, for plant height and fruit yield per plant. These results suggest that multi-parent crosses hold significant promise with their broader genetic base for isolating superior inbred lines for hybrid development. Integrating molecular markers with traditional breeding approaches can refine the selection of elite genotypes and accelerate the development of robust cultivars for sustainable agriculture.