Genotype by Environment (G×E) Interaction Study on Yield Traits in Different Maturity Groups of Rice

Abstract

Rice production is affected by emerging problems of climate change and over-utilization of resources. To obtain consistent yield across diverse environments, a variety should have adaptability and stability to fit into various growing conditions. G×E interaction and stability performance of 59 rice lines of different maturity durations were investigated for grain yield-related traits in three environments. This study was carried out to identify stable lines for varietal development as well as to identify parental lines with stable contributing traits for further breeding programs. AMMI and GGE analysis showed significant genotype, environment, and G×E interaction indicating the presence of variability among the genotypes and environments. The G×E interaction effect showed that the genotypes responded differently to the variation in environmental conditions or seasonal fluctuations and explained that most of the traits were contributed mainly by genotype, followed by environment and their interaction. As per AMMI biplot analysis, environment1 was identified as the best suited for potential expression of grain yield and related traits. Results of stability analysis revealed that early and mid-early genotypes NH776, NH4371, 27K, NH686, 258S, NH219, and Tellahamsa were identified as the best stable genotypes across all the three seasons for single plant grain yield and hence suitable for wider environments. These selected genotypes can be suggested for hybridization in further breeding programs to develop early genotypes with high yield. The stable early and mid-early lines with high yield potential will be tested in multi-location trials for commercial cultivation.