Abstract
The yield and protein performance in a soybean genotype result from its interaction with the prevailing environmental conditions. This makes selecting the best genotypes under varied target production environments more complex. This study’s objectives were to determine protein content and protein stability of 30 elite soybean genotypes in major soybean-growing areas of Uganda, assess the yield performance and stability in soybeans and determine the relationship between the protein content and grain yield in soybeans. The genotypes were planted in a randomized complete block design of three replications for six seasons across eight locations in Uganda. Genotype and genotype-by-environment (GGE) biplot analyses classified the test locations into three mega-environments for soybean protein and grain yields. Genotype NII X GC 20.3 had the highest mean protein content of 43.0%, and BSPS 48A-9-2 and BSPS 48A-28 were superior for the mean grain yield (1207 kg ha−1). Bulindi was the most discriminating and representative test environment for soybean yield. A weak and negative correlation (r = −0.1**, d.f. = 29) was detected between the protein content (%) and yield (kg ha−1). The highest-yielding genotypes BSPS 48A-9-2, BSPS 48A-31, and Nam II × GC 44.2 are recommended for further evaluation under farmers’ production conditions for selection and release as new soybean varieties in Uganda.
Highlights
Soybeans (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) are a vital feed and food resource in the East African region [1]
The breeding method should minimize the loss of high protein content alleles, given the negative correlation between the traits
BSPS 48A-9-2 is recommended for high-input farming systems, because it has broad stability, while Nam 2 × GC 44.2, with narrow stability, for low-input production systems
Summary
Soybeans (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) are a vital feed and food resource in the East African region [1]. Soybean production has undergone the greatest expansion of any global crop [2]. By 2050, soybean production will double [4]. Around 75% of soybeans produced worldwide are used for animal feed, especially for poultry and pigs [4]. Soybeans improve soil fertility through nitrogen fixation and enhanced moisture retention, leading to a more sustainable cropping system [6]. The nitrogen-fixing ability of soybeans makes them a good crop for the sustainable agricultural systems of tropical Africa, which are characterized by infertile soils and low fertilizer usage
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