Performance of ‘Drira Out-Cross 7’ Triticale in West Asia, North Africa and Mediterranean Europe

Abstract

In the Mediterranean region, especially in countries of West Asia and North Africa, few studies have been conducted on the adaptation of triticale. This study aimed to find areas within the region in which triticale has the potential for commercial production. Six years’ (1986/87 to 1991/92) data of the CIMMYT/ ICARDA Regional Durum Wheat Yield Trial, which included ‘Drira Out-cross 7’ as a triticale check, were analysed. Sites in the region were divided into six sub-regions. Entry means and standard deviations of relative yield were calculated for each sub-region. In all seasons, ‘Drira Out-cross 7’ was the highest yielding entry in Mediterranean Europe and in North Africa; however, its performance in West Asia was not consistent. Relative to other sub-regions, it had the poorest performance under irrigated environments in Egypt. Regression coefficients indicated that it had average response to improved conditions. However, the generally much higher standard deviations than the durum wheat entries showed that it did not have wide adaptation within sub-regions. Implications of these results on triticale breeding for the Mediterranean region were discussed.