Genotype × Environment Interaction and Stability of Phosphorus Concentration in Two Soybean Germplasm Sources with Modified Phosphorus Composition

Abstract

ABSTRACTTwo sources of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] germplasm, CX1834 and V99‐5089, improve the nutritional composition of soybeans due to different genetic mutations resulting in decreases in phytate and increases in inorganic phosphorus (Pi) concentration. Commercial production of cultivars with these germplasm sources depends on the stability of phytate and Pi concentration under diverse growing environments. We analyzed phytate and Pi concentration from eight genotypes grown in 12 environments to evaluate the genotypic and environmental effects and to determine trait stability. Two lines with normal composition and six lines modified for P composition, including three CX1834‐derived lines from different genetic backgrounds and three sister lines derived from V99‐5089, were evaluated. The genotypic effects and the genotype × environment interaction were significant for phytate and Pi concentration. The environment significantly affected Pi concentration of the modified P lines but had no significant effect on phytate concentration. The CX1834‐derived lines were lower for phytate concentration and higher for Pi concentration compared to the V99‐5089‐derived lines. Five modified P composition lines were average or above average for phytate stability which may allow these cultivars to be produced commercially in a range of environments.