Yield and fiber quality traits of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) cultivars analyzed by biplot method

Abstract

BackgroundCotton is a vital fiber crop fulfilling global demands for raw materials in the textile sector. Therefore, high-yielding cultivars with superior-quality traits are desired at regional scales. The high-yielding cultivars can be selected by determining their responses to various environmental conditions at different locations over a short or long period. Genotypes, environment, and year significantly alter seed cotton yield and fiber quality. Therefore, determining the response to various environmental conditions is necessary for selecting high-yielding cultivars with superior fiber quality. MethodsThis study determined the yield and fiber quality traits of 3 cotton cultivars (i.e., ‘DP396′, ‘BA440′ and ‘Teksa 415′) at five different locations (i.e., Tepe, Boztepe, Bozçalı, Köseli and GAP International Agricultural Research and Training Center) in southeastern Anatolia, Turkey for 3 years (2019, 2020, and 2021). Data relating to seed cotton yield and fiber quality traits were collected and relationships of these traits were determined by biplot analysis. ResultsCultivars × traits relationship indicated that ‘DP396′ was the most stable cultivar with the highest seed cotton yield. Similarly, ‘BA440′ cultivar was associated with quality characteristics. Sector analysis divided the yield and quality traits into three different groups. The locations × traits relationship indicated that the examined traits differed according to the locations. Tepe location was in the center in terms of quality and seed yield, whereas Bozçalı location had superior quality traits. Likewise, Boztepe location resulted in higher values ​​ of seed and fiber yield, and number of bolls per plant. The studied characteristics varied among the years, and higher values of seed and fiber yields, and the number of bolls per plant were recorded during 2019. On the other hand, superior fiber quality traits were noted during 2021. ConclusionsIt is concluded that ‘DP396′ was the most stable cultivar for seed cotton yield, whereas ‘BA440′ was stable for quality traits. Therefore, these cultivars can be used in the studied locations to increase yield and fiber quality. Furthermore, these cultivars could be utilized in the breeding programs for developing high-yielding and better fiber quality producing genotypes in the future.