Genotypes by Environment Interaction of Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Genotypes on Yield and Quality Parameters under Rainfed Conditions

Abstract

The significant genotype (G) by environment (E) interaction and genetic diversity in the breeding programs are an essential issue for the breeder to develop new cultivars. The experiment was conducted in the Trakia region, Turkey at five environments during the 2015-2016 growing cycles. In the study, 25 advanced genotypes were used in randomized complete block design with four replications. Data on grain yield, days to heading, plant height, 1000-kernel weight, test weight, protein ratio, wet gluten content, gluten index, hardness, and sedimentation value were investigated. The results of variance analyses showed that there were significant differences (P<0.01) among genotypes based on all parameters investigated. Genotypes when tested across different environmental conditions often showed significant variation in grain yield. Mean grain yield across five locations ranged from the highest 6673 kg ha-1 to the smallest 5008 kg ha-1. Burgaz location was found near the ideal test environment of the average environment coordination. Therefore, location Burgaz should be regarded as the most suitable to select widely adapted genotypes. With the longest vectors from the origin, environments Edirne1 and Edirne2 were the most discriminating location. Considering simultaneously mean yield and stability, G7 and G12 were the best genotypes. G3 is more ideal genotype because it is located in the ideal center. So these genotypes can be used as for the evaluation of bread wheat genotypes in the region. With the longest vectors from the origin, traits plant height, gluten index and protein ratio was the most discriminating parameters. In the evaluation of genotypes, G2 and Pehlivan are quite stable because they are located close to the center of the horizontal axis. Genotype G3 is very favourable because it is located near the center of the horizontal axis and on all traits. G7, G24 and Aldane are located above the axis vertical genotypes are desirable based on parameters profiles.