Yield performance and adaptation of advanced large-seeded common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) genotypes in Ethiopia

Abstract

To ensure the food demand of the rapidly growing population along with changing climate and limiting resources, development and adoption of high-yielding crop cultivars adapting to the adverse effects of climate is crucial for enhancing food production and productivity. The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance and adaptability of 23 advanced bean lines generated by single-seed descent and two commercial varieties (Batu and SAB-736), using additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) and genotype plus G x E interaction (GGE) models. Field experiments were conducted in 2019 wet season (from July to October) at five diverse growing environments of Ethiopia. Wide variations were observed across the genotypes and environments for grain yield and other related traits. Mean performance of genotypes for yield ranged from 1.20 to 1.67 t ha −1 across environments, with a grand mean of 1.50 t ha −1 thereby favors genetic enhancement of the trait through selection. Environmental and interaction impacts were greater for all measured traits including yield. Except for number of pod plant −1 and 100 seed weight where interaction effect was more important, the percent variation due to environment was the highest for all traits expression, from 14.76 to 91.09%, to the total variation. Three advanced genotypes showed better yield than SAB-736 (the recent c. variety) and general adaptation across the environments. But, their consistency should be checked across seasons to suggest them for cultivation on these and other similar environments.