Genetic Parameters for Fruits, Seeds and Oil Content Traits of Jatropha curcas L. in a Semi-arid Region of Senegal

Aim: The aim of this work was to study the genetic parameters of fruits, seeds and oil content of Jatropha curcas accessions in a semi-arid region of Senegal.

Methodology: The study was conducted on 35 accessions of J. curcas planted at the research station of National School of Agriculture located in Thies, Senegal. Fruits were collected from 1-4 years old plantations. Then, for each accession, 30 dry fruits were randomly selected and were subjected to measurements of the size parameters and weight. Fruits were peeled and shells weighed. A sample of 20 seeds per accession was selected with 3 replications for seed traits measurements and seed oil content by Soxhlet method.

Results: The results showed significant differences (p <.001) in seed and fruit traits as well as in oil content between accessions. Oil content, kernel weight/shell weight ratio and 100-seed weight are highly correlated quantitative characters which have also, high heritability broad sense (92.51%, 100% and 87.14%, respectively) and genetic advance values (39.32%, 36.44%, and 28.77%, respectively). Also, this study has highlighted four local accessions (Keur Samba Gueye, Notto 3, Ndary and Soutra) with high oil content (> 55%).

Conclusion: There is high genetic variability of Jatropha curcas in Senegal in terms of seed, fruit and oil traits. The quantitative characters such as oil content and 100-seed weight might be used for early selection of promising accessions. The local J. curcas plant materiel is interesting enough to perform breeding programs and support national sustainable production of biofuel.