Variability Assessment of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) Genotypes Based on Their Qualitative Traits

The present study was conducted on okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) genotypes collected from Benishangul Regional State of Western Ethiopia. The objective of this study was to assess the genetic diversity of okra within a regional state based on qualitative traits at Melkassa Research Center during the rainy season of 2019. The results showed that the okra genotypes collected from the regional state had a wide variation in growth habits, leaf, fruit, flower, and seed in their qualitative traits, namely, shape, color, and other quality factors like pubescence which is a determinant factor in consumer preference. Therefore, the result of this study is an indicator for the presence of a higher chance to develop okra varieties highly preferred by domestic and foreign markets through selection/crossing of okra genotype collected from Benishangul Gumuz regional state; as an example, accession 29622 had a smooth texture of fruit with green fruit color which is preferable by consumers. However, the genotypes showed greater variability for plant branching habits that has its effect mainly related to contamination of branches and fruits by soilborne microorganisms and the soil itself during irrigating fields. Finally, it is better if molecular characterization is to be followed by the current morphological characterization and evaluation work