Analysis of Performance Genotype-Environment Interaction and Phenotypic Stability for Seed Yield and Some Yield Components in Faba Bean (Vicia Faba L.) Populations

Abstract

The present research was carried out to study Genotype-Environment Interaction (GEI) and stability of performance over three environments (seasons) for seed yield and some of its components in 11 indigenous populations of faba bean (Vicia faba L.) using a randomized complete block design with three replications. GEI was analyzed using linear regression technique and phenotypic stability was investigated using parameters of coefficient regression (bi) and deviation from regression line (S2di). GEI was found to be highly significant (P ≤ 0.01) for all the characteristics studied; the number of podded branches / plant, the number of seeds / pod, 10-green pod weight (g) and seed yield / plant (g). The partitioning of GEI mean squares into linear and non-linear components showed that environments (linear) significantly differed and were quite diverse with regards to their effects on the performance of populations for seed yield and its components. Stable populations were identified for wide and specific environments along with desirable mean performance (overall - general mean) for all the investigated characteristics. The results revealed the complete absence of populations that could be considered desirable, widely adapted and stable. The populations DAR 5, UD I, Q 2/1 and SU I were stable, having average responsiveness, hence, they are suited to all environments. However, unfortunately, they recorded mean values less than the grand mean, so, they cannot be recommended. Other populations like DAR 2 and DAR 4 were found suitable for favorable conditions, while populations such as UD II, Q 1/1 and SU II were adapted to low yielding environments for seed yield / plant.