G1 Genotype Research Articles

Enhancing large-diameter timber production: Evaluating poplars by genotype and spacing

To meet the increased demand for construction timber, selecting large-diameter hybrid poplar genotypes and optimizing spacing are essential for enhancing stand productivity in Northeast China. In the Daling River Plain, a trial with 12 clones (G1∼G12) of Populus × euramericana at four spacings (2 m×5 m, 3 m×8 m, 4 m×8 m, 4 m×10 m) was conducted. Over a 14-year rotation, tree height, diameter at breast height, survival rate, individual tree volume, growing stock, and timber yield were measured and analyzed. Results showed that while tree height was minimally affected, diameter at breast height, survival rate, and growing stock were significantly influenced by genotype and spacing. Higher spacings inhibited growth but increased variability within the stand. Diameter at breast height in the 2 m×5 m spacing reached the large-diameter standard (24 cm) and provided a higher growing stock. The minimum density required for larger-diameter wood (diameter at breast height over 35 cm) was the 4 m×8 m spacing. GGE-Biplots identified the top five genotypes as G2, G4, G11, G1, and G10. Genotypes G4, G10, and G1 were suitable for low-density plantations, with G4 performing best, achieving a 95 % improvement in survival rate and a 105 % increase in growing stock. Genotypes G2 and G11 were ideal for high-density plantations, with G2 showing the best results, increasing survival rate by 36 % and growing stock by 56 %. The optimal period for early selection in P. × euramericana is the 4th to 5th year after afforestation. The best design, D1×G2, yielded 513 m³·ha⁻¹ of timber and 288.52 m³·ha⁻¹ of large-diameter wood. These findings support the establishment of large-diameter poplar plantations, aiding future breeding efforts and increasing stand productivity.

Development and Validation of RAA-CRISPR/Cas12a-Based Assay for Detecting Porcine Rotavirus

Piglet diarrhea poses significant economic losses to the pig industry, posing a worldwide challenge that urgently needs to be addressed in pig breeding practices. Porcine rotavirus (PoRV) is an important viral diarrhea pathogen in piglets, with a high incidence rate and a tendency to cause growth retardation. To enhance the sensitivity and specificity of PoRV detection, we sequenced the NSP3 gene of G5 and G9 genotypes of rotavirus A (RVA), enabling simultaneous detection of the two serotypes. Subsequently, we developed a rapid PoRV detection method using a combination of recombinase-aided amplification (RAA) and CRISPR/Cas12a. In this method, Cas12a binds to RAA amplification products, guided by CRISPR-derived RNA (crRNA), which activates its cleavage activity and releases fluorescence by cutting FAM-BHQ-labeled single-stranded DNA (ssDNA). In the optimized reaction system, the recombinant plasmid PoRV can achieve a highly sensitive reaction within 30 min at 37 °C, with a detection limit as low as 2.43 copies/μL, which is ten times higher in sensitivity compared to the qPCR method. Results from specificity testing indicate that no cross-reactivity was observed between the RAA-CRISPR/Cas12a analysis of PoRV and other viral pathogens, including PoRV G3, PoRV G4, porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), porcine epidemic diarrhea (PDCoV), and porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV). In the clinical sample detection using the RAA-CRISPR/Cas12a method and qPCR, Cohen’s Kappa value reached as high as 0.952. Furthermore, this approach eliminates the need for large-scale instrumentation, offering a visual result under an ultraviolet lamp through fluorescence signal output.

Epidemiology and genetic diversity of Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto in the East Tianshan Mountains, Xinjiang, China.

In Xinjiang, previous reports of cystic echinococcosis (CE) in livestock have focused on West and Middle Tianshan Mountains. In contrast, there is an absence of research on CE in the East Tianshan Mountains. To determine the epidemiology and genetic diversity of Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto (s.s.) in domestic animals in the East Tianshan Mountains, Xinjiang, China, the livers and lungs of 1773 domestic animals were examined, between January 2023 and March 2023, and 40 cysts were collected. Polymerase chain reaction was used for the molecular diagnosis of the cysts. Statistical results showed that the overall prevalence of echinococcosis in sheep was 6.92% (114/1646), which was significantly higher than that in cattle (1.57%, 2/127). A total of 40 cyst isolates were obtained, including 38 from sheep and 2 from cattle. Genomic DNA was extracted, and the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) gene was amplified by PCR to obtain the target 850bp fragment. The results revealed that all the isolates had the G1 genotype, with similarities ranging from 98.88-100%. Haplotype network analysis revealed 32 haplotypes of the cox1 gene, among which Hap_7 was the main haplotype. Furthermore, haplotype diversity (Hd = 0.313 ± 0.093) and nucleotide diversity (π = 0.00173 ± 0.00079) were lower in the East Tianshan Mountains than in other regions, indicating that the populations are genetically less differentiated. Tajima's D and Fu's Fs tests were negative (p ≤ 0.01), indicating an expansion of the population in the East Tianshan Mountains of Xinjiang, similar to the results previously reported for Xinjiang. The low fixation index (Fst) ranged from negative values (Gansu Province) to 0.30346 (Mongolia), indicating that the genetic differentiation between the East Tianshan Mountains and Gansu, and Tibet, Xinjiang was relatively low, with frequent gene flow. In this survey, two 'new' haplotypes were identified in the East Tianshan livestock. In addition, two different haplotypes of liver and lung infections were found in one cattle. This survey provides information on the epidemiology and genetic diversity of E. granulosus s.s. in the East Tianshan Mountains of Xinjiang, China.

Study of rotavirus genotypes G and P in one Egyptian center-cross-sectional study

BackgroundRotavirus-associated gastroenteritis is a common health problem in children, different variations of rotavirus genotypes differ according to geographic locations and the practice of wide-scale vaccination. Therefore, the present study aimed to detect both the G and P genotypes of rotavirus in children ≤ 5 years old in one center in Egypt as a cross-sectional study, to correlate the genotypes with various demographic and clinical data in infected children and to evaluate the common mixed genotypes G and P in infected children.MethodThe cross-sectional study included children with acute gastroenteritis ≤ 5 years old from January 2023 till March 2024 recruited from Mansoura University Children’s Hospital, Egypt based upon laboratory diagnosis by exclusion of bacterial and protozoa pathogens. The stool samples were obtained from each child and subjected to detection of rotavirus antigen by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) followed by genotypes identification of G and P genotypes by nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR).ResultA nested PCR study for rotavirus genotypes revealed that G1 was the most common genotype (24.7%) followed by G2 (21.1%), G3 (20%), G9 (20%), and G4 (14.1%). The genotyping of the P genotype revealed that P9 was the commonest genotype (24.7%), followed by P4 (21.2%), P10 (20%), P8 (17.6%) and P6 (16.5%). The commonest combined genotypes of G and P were G1P4 (85.7%), G3P8(88.2%), followed by G2P6 (77.8%) and G9P9(76.5%) and G4P9 (66.7%) followed by G4P10 (33.3%), G9P10(23.5%), G2P10(22.2%), G1P10 (14.3%), G3P10(11.8%). The distribution was significant (P = 0.001). The positive rotavirus antigen was more frequently detected in females (55.3%) than males (44.7%, Odd ratio 0.2, 95% CI 0.22–0.71, P = 0.001). There was a significant association between the summer season and positive rotavirus antigen (P = 0.001) and rural residence of the patients (Odd ratio 6,9 95%CI 3,5-13.5, P = 0.001). The significant associated clinical sign with positive rotavirus antigen was fever (Odd ratio 3,3, 95%CI 1,8-6.05, P = 0.001). The genotypes G and P were significantly associated with positive rotavirus antigen as all cases positive by antigen had been detected by nested PCR with the commonest genotypes G4 (24.7%, P = 0.001) and genotype P9 (24.7%, P = 0.001).ConclusionThe present study highlights the common genotypes of rotavirus at one center in Egypt, G1, G2, and G3 were the commonest G genotypes. As regard genotype P the commonest genotypes were P9, P4, and P10. The commonest combined genotypes were G1P4, G3P8, G2P6. There was no effect of the practice of rotavirus vaccination at limited rates at private health sections as the rotavirus is still a major pathogen of acute gastroenteritis in children. There is a need for the inclusion of rotavirus vaccination in the national program of children vaccination in Egypt.

Evaluation of Drought Tolerance Ability in Wheat Genotypes Through Comprehensive Stress Indices

The objective was to assess a range of stress indices to discern wheat genotypes resilient to drought stress, so forty-nine genotypes underwent scrutiny in both drought stress in rainfed conditions and non-stress settings (with supplementary irrigation), employing a 7 × 7 lattice layout with two replicates across years 2019 and 2020. The evaluation incorporated twenty stress indices anchored in yield under water stress (YS) and potential (YP) circumstances. Primary analysis indicated that eight indices (RDI, YSI, YI, K2STI, MRP, REI, RR and SSPI) did not give any new information, so they were eliminated in further analysis. Genotypes G33 (4234 kg ha-1) and G9 (2227 kg ha-1) were the best genotypes based on YP in 2019 and 2020, respectively. A positive association was observed between ATI and YP and between YS with DI and K1STI in the year 2019, while in the second year, such positive associations were not seen. We found some wheat genotypes G6, G9, G10 and G11 demonstrated high performance in both potential and rainfed conditions across two years, showing yield higher than 1,800 and 2,700 kg ha-1 for YS and YP, respectively, across both years. These genotypes were detected as the most tolerant genotypes by mean-based indices (TOL, HM, GMP, and MP) as well as SSI and ATI indices, so it can be concluded that these indices are more useful than other indices for identifying the most tolerant as well as the high yielding genotypes.

Development of Elite Mother Palms from the Best-Performing Slow-Vertical-Growth Oil Palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) Genotypes

Harvesting is a serious issue in oil palm plantations after 15–20 years owing to the increased height of the trees (>9 m). The slow vertical growth of the oil palm dura genotypes is desired for increasing the D × P progenies’ productivity and economic life span upto ten years. A reduced height increment has a long-term impact on harvesting costs. The current study assessed 308 genotypes generated from African germplasm. Over a three year period, the biometric properties of eleven D × D crosses were evaluated in order to quantify genetic parameters and phenotypic correlations, and principal component analysis was performed for genetic attributes of the better-performing dwarf progenies in terms of yield. The evaluated genotypes have a highly significant influence (p < 0.01) on the majority of characteristics. The progenies yielded between 165 and 208 kg of fresh fruit bunches (FFBs) per palm every year. The height increment (HI) varied between 17% and 19%, with an overall average of 18%. Genotypes G8, G300, and G221 had the lowest yearly height increments, measuring 28.98, 29.19, and 30.87 cm, respectively. The outcome of the present study shows that they are slow-height-increment genotypes with a high FFB yield (>25 T/Ha). The creation of dura parents with a slow height increment in combination with a high bunch weight helps for prolonging the productive life of the palm to more than 35 years, adding value to obtain distinct oil palm varieties. Overall, this targeted breeding effort towards developing dwarf oil palm hybrids reflects a strategic approach to addressing specific challenges in oil palm cultivation, ultimately helping to promote the oil palm sector globally.

New Genotype G3 P[8] of Rotavirus Identified in a Mexican Gastroenteric Rabbit.

Rotavirus species A (RVA) is a major cause of acute viral gastroenteritis in young humans and diverse animal species. The study of the genetic characteristics of RVAs that infect rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) (lapine strain [LRV]) has been limited, and, to date, the most common and epidemiologically important combinations of G/P genotypes in rabbits have been reported to be G3 P[14] and G3 P[22]. In this study, a rotavirus species A detected from an outbreak of enteritis in a Mexican commercial rabbitry was genotypically characterized. Based on sequence and phylogenetic analysis of the VP7 and VP4 genes, the strain identified in this study (C-3/15) demonstrated a G3 P[8] genotype of rotavirus, which had not previously been reported in rabbits. Moreover, both genes were closely related to human, not lapine, rotaviruses. The G3 genotype has been reported in a wide variety of hosts, including humans and rabbits, whereas the P[8] genotype has only been reported in humans. Because this combination of genotypes has never been identified in rabbits, it is proposed that the finding presented here is possibly the result of an interspecies transmission event. This is the first work to study the molecular characteristics of rotaviruses in rabbits in Mexico, as well as the identification of human G3 and P[8] genotypes in a rabbit with enteric disease.

Antigenicity and genetic properties of an Eurasian avian-like H1N1 swine influenza virus in Jiangsu Province, China

Pigs are vital genetic mixing vessels for human and avian influenza viruses because their tracheal epitheliums possess both sialic acid α-2,6-Gal and α-2,3-Gal receptors. Cross-species transmission of influenza A viruses from swine to humans occurs occasionally. The first case of human infection with the Eurasian avian-like H1N1 swine influenza virus (EAH1N1 SIVs) genotype G4 was detected in Jiangsu in February 2023, and backtracking epidemiological investigations did not reveal a clear source of the infection. The hemagglutination (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) amino acid variant sites, antiviral drug susceptibility, and antigenic variation of the isolated A/Jiangsu/27271/2023 (JS/27271/23) virus were analyzed, and we evaluated the protective effect of sera collected from occupationally exposed populations in 2024 against the virus. Compared with the vaccine strain, the nucleotide sequence similarities of JS/27271/23 HA and NA were 96.5 % and 95.2 %, respectively. JS/27271/23 was sensitive to polymerase inhibitors (favipiravir and baloxavir), and the antigenicity of its HA protein was 8-fold different from that of the vaccine strain. The percentage of occupationally exposed population with antibody titers of ≥ 40 against A/Hunan/42443/2015 (HN/42443/15) and A/Jiangsu/1/2011 (JS/1/11) were 7.25 % and 2.25 %, respectively, and the geometric mean titers (GMT) were 6.24 and 5.34, respectively. Out of 400 serum samples examined, none had antibody titers of ≥ 40 against JS/27271/23. This suggests that low serum levels of antibodies to EAH1N1 SIVs in occupationally exposed populations may not provide adequate protection because of significant differences in amino acid sites and antigenicity between this virus and the current vaccine strain of EAH1N1 SIVs. There is no evidence of human-to-human transmission of EAH1N1 SIVs. Therefore, surveillance for EAH1N1 SIVs and the development of new vaccine strains are required.

Identification of Rotavirus Genotypes in Children under Five Years in the United Arab Emirates Using Nanopore Sequencing Technology.

Group A rotaviruses (RVA) remain a principal cause of childhood diarrhea in the UAE, despite universal vaccine use. Monitoring genetic diversity is important for identifying prevalent genotypes and escape mutants. Although real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) is widely used for RVA genotyping, it may not detect some new strains. This study evaluates nanopore sequencing and RT-PCR for RVA genotyping. Thirty-three RVA strains from children under 5 years presenting with diarrhea were genotyped using both methods. Thirteen strains were genotyped by RT-PCR and confirmed by nanopore sequencing. Fifteen strains were genotyped by nanopore method alone. Most PCR-genotyped strains (56%) had the VP7 G9 genotype, with G3 in five strains and G12 in two. For VP4, P8 (n = 8) and P4 (n = 7) were dominant. The most frequent combinations were G9P[8] (31%) and G9P[4] (25%). Nanopore sequencing of 28 strains revealed G3P[8] (29%) as the most prevalent, followed by G8P[8] (18%). G9P[8] and G2P[4] were present in 14% of samples with G12P[6] being the rarest (7%). Other combinations were detected in 4% the specimens with one nontypeable. Nanopore sequencing was superior to PCR in identifying diverse and emerging genotypes like G8P[8]. This method may enhance surveillance studies and guide preventive measures for RVA gastroenteritis.

Virus-like Particles vaccine based on co-expression of G5 Porcine rotavirus VP2-VP6-VP7 induces a powerful immune protective response in mice

Porcine rotavirus (PoRV), a member of the Reoviridae family, constitutes a principal etiological agent of acute diarrhea in piglets younger than eight weeks of age, and it is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality within the swine industry. The G5 genotype rotavirus strain currently predominates in circulation. To develop a safe and effective porcine rotavirus vaccine, we generated an insect cell-baculovirus expression system, and successfully expressed these three viral proteins and assembled them into virus-like particles (VLPs) co-displaying VP2, VP6, and VP7. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis revealed that the VP2-VP6-VP7 VLPs exhibited a "wheeled" morphology resembling that of native rotavirus particles, with an estimated diameter of approximately 65nm. To evaluate the immunogenicity and protective efficacy of these VP2-VP6-VP7 VLPs, we immunized BALB/C mice with four escalating doses of the VLPs, ranging from 5 to 40μg of VLP protein per dose. ELISA-based assessments of PoRV-specific antibodies and T cell cytokines, including IL-4, IL-2, and IFN-γ, demonstrate that immunization with VP2-VP6-VP7 VLPs can effectively elicit both humoral and cellular immune responses in mice, resulting in a notable induction of neutralizing antibodies. On days 4, 6, 8, and 10 post-infection (dpi), the VLP-vaccinated group exhibited significantly reduced levels of PoRV RNA copy numbers when compared to the PBS controls. Histological examination of the duodenum, ileum, and kidneys revealed that VP2-VP6-VP7 VLPs provided effective protection against PoRV induced intestinal injury. Collectively, these findings indicate that the VLPs generated in this study possess strong immunogenicity and suggest the considerable promise of the VLP-based vaccine candidate in the prevention and containment of Porcine Rotavirus infections.

Genotype × environment interaction and stability analysis of advanced field pea (Pisum sativum L.) genotypes in Southeastern Ethiopia

Field pea is a leguminous crops that have a significant economic contributions to sustainable Ethiopian agriculture. The experiment was conducted at four location in 2015/16 to 2016/17 main cropping seasons with the objectives of to determine the magnitude of genotype by environment interactions and its stability of thirteen field pea genotypes using randomized complete block design with four replications. The AMMI analysis revealed that significant (p<0.01) differences between genotypes, environments and genotype by environment interactions for grain yield. This indicates the genotypes responded differently across environments. The highest mean grain yield was recorded from genotype G12 which records (2992 kg ha−1) followed by genotype G4 2974 kg ha−1 across environments. The AMMI analysis showed that genotypes, environments and there interaction accounted about 72.9 %, 1.2 % and 5.7 % of the total sum of squares respectively. The GGE biplot first two principal components explained about 57.42 % of the total sum square of GEI. The GGE biplot revealed that G4 and G12 were the most stable and high yielding genotypes, while G10 and G9 were the lowest yielder and stable genotypes. The results indicated that genotypes responded differently to environmental conditions and the environments influenced genotype performances.

Selection of rice genotypes based on agronomic traits and commercial grain quality

The study aimed to select rice genotypes based on agronomic traits and commercial grain quality. The study was carried out in the 2014/15 and 2015/16 harvests in eight growing environments, located in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Fourteen rice genotypes were sown in each environment. The experiment was conducted in a randomized block design with four replications. The following agronomic traits were evaluated: number of days to flowering and grain yield as well as commercial grain quality traits: percentage of whole grains and percentage of chalky area in the grains. AMMI, GGE and MGIDI methodologies were used to select the best performing genotypes. Using the AMMI, GGE and MGDI methods, genotypes G9 and G1 performed close to the ideal ideotype for the number of days to grain flowering, yield and quality.

Continuing evolution of H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses of clade 2.3.2.1a G2 genotype in domestic poultry of Bangladesh during 2018–2021

ABSTRACT We characterized 15 H5N1 HPAI viruses from different small- and medium-scale poultry flocks across Bangladesh during 2018–2021 based on their complete genome sequences. The antigenic relatedness of H5N1 HPAI viruses from different timepoints was analysed. During 2020–2021, 42.11% of the flocks tested positive for at least one of the respiratory infections, with 15.79% showing influenza A virus, of which 8.77% tested positive for HPAIV H5N1. Co-infections with two to four pathogens were detected in 15.8% of flocks. Phylogeny and gene constellation analyses based on complete genome sequences of 15 HPAI viruses revealed the continuing circulation of H5 clade 2.3.2.1a genotype G2 viruses. In the HA protein of the study isolates, functionally meaningful mutations caused the loss of an N-linked glycosylation site (T156A), a modified antigenic site A (S141P), and a mutation in the receptor binding pocket (E193R/K). Consequently, antigenic analysis revealed a significant loss of cross-reactivity between viruses from different host species and periods. Most viruses displayed oseltamivir resistance markers at positions V96, I97, S227, and N275 (N1 numbering) of the NA protein. In addition, for the PB2, M1, and NS1 proteins, significant mutations were noticed that have been associated with polymerase activity and increased virulence for mammals in all study isolates. These results highlight the need for intensified genomic surveillance of HPAI circulating in poultry in Bangladesh and for establishing appropriate control measures to decrease the circulation of these viruses in poultry in the country.

Principal Component Analysis in rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties for three seasons in Annamalai Nagar, an east coast region of Tamil Nadu

Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to assess genetic variability and identify key yield-contributing traits among 50 rice genotypes evaluated over three seasons under saline conditions. The study aimed to select promising donor lines for developing salt-tolerant, high-yielding cultivars suitable for coastal regions. PCA identified three principal components (PCs) that explained 73.19%, 70.34%, and 64.81% of the total genetic variation in seasons 1, 2 and 3, respectively. Key plant attributes, such as grain yield per plant, panicle grain density, total tiller number, and productive tiller count, showed significant positive associations with PC1 across various growth stages, underscoring their crucial role in explaining the genetic diversity among the genotypes. Plant height, panicle length, and hundred-grain weight also emerged as major contributors to variation. The PCA biplots consistently demonstrated positive correlations between grain yield and traits like panicle length, hundred-grain weight, and tillering ability. In contrast, days to 50% flowering exhibited a negative association with yield. Genotypes G10, G49, G36, G41, G9, G4, G22, and G21 displayed favourable combinations of grain yield per plant, identifying them as potential donor lines for breeding programs aimed at improving rice yield and associated agronomic traits. This comprehensive PCA analysis highlights the effectiveness of the approach in capturing genotypic diversity and guiding the selection of promising germplasm for targeted trait improvement in rice.

Assessing the population structure and genetic diversity of wheat germplasm with the iPBS-retrotransposons marker system

Context Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is an important crop that provides food to millions of people all over the world. Currently, wheat production is limited due to various biotic and abiotic stresses resulting from uneven patterns of climate change. Therefore, it is very important to develop climate-resilient wheat cultivars. Crop genetic diversity allows the scientific community to identify genetic variations that can be utilised in the development of improved cultivars. Aims This study planned to characterise the wheat germplasm with the iPBS-retrotransposons marker system. Methods A total of 30 iPBS-retrotransposons markers were screened and among these, the 12 most polymorphic markers were selected for further analysis. Key results Molecular characterisation yielded a total of 170 bands, of which 143 were polymorphic. A substantial level of genetic diversity was observed (mean effective number of alleles: 1.37, Shannon’s information index: 0.23, gene diversity: 0.35). Maximum genetic distance was observed in G9 and G60 genotypes. Analysis of molecular variance revealed that most genetic variation (95%) occurred within the populations. The model-based structure algorithm divided the studied germplasm into three populations based on their collection regions. Similarly, the neighbour-joining analysis also divided 70 tested wheat genotypes into three populations, whereas principal coordinate analysis divided the evaluated germplasm into four populations. Conclusions This study confirms the iPBS-retrotransposons as an ideal marker for the genetic diversity assessment studies for any crop, especially for wheat. Implications The results presented here will be helpful for the scientific community in the marker-assisted breeding of wheat.

Salinity Studies in Quinoa (Quinoa Chenipodoum Willd) from Haditha Desert, Western of Iraq

The present studies were conducted to determine the effect of various concentrations of NaCl salinity on germination and growth of four genotypes of Quinoa Chenopodium Willd, namely G1 (KVL-SR2), G2 (Q-21), G3 (Q-37), and G4 (Regalona), exposed to 0, 60, 120, and 300 mM NaCl. The study was conducted at the Center of Desert Research, Egypt, and the experiment was carried out in the Plant Physiology Laboratory of the Center of Desert Studies. Seeds were treated with four different levels of NaCl concentration: 0, 60, 120, and 300 mM. The experiment followed a Completely Randomized Design with three replications. The germination experiment aimed to determine the effect of NaCl salinity on seed germination percentage. Seeds were placed in autoclaved petri dishes lined with two layers of filter paper, with fifty seeds per dish. Seeds were treated with 0, 60, 120, and 300 mM NaCl solutions (5 mL). The petri dishes were kept in the laboratory at temperatures ranging from 25°C to 28°C for four weeks. Water loss from the petri dishes due to evaporation was monitored using control petri dishes, and water was added every 24 hours as needed. A pot experiment was conducted using plastic pots containing 1700 grams of fine-sieved soil. Seeds of the aforementioned genotypes were sown in 500 grams of soil, separated from the rest of the pot's soil by a polythene sheet. Plants were watered on alternate days and subjected to salinity treatment 25 days after sowing. Fifty milliliters of nutrient solution (N ratio of 6:4) were also added to the salt solution per pot. The salt solution was applied to the 1200 grams of soil in the pot, and after complete absorption, the polythene sheet separating the soil containing plantlets was removed, allowing the roots of the seedlings to grow into the saline soil in the lower half of the pot. Thinning was done after one week, maintaining five plants per pot. The plants were harvested one month after the salinity treatment. It was observed that the germination percentage decreased as the salinity level increased. G1 was tolerant, while G4 was salt-sensitive compared to the other genotypes. Plant height, number of leaves, and number of nodes per plant decreased with increasing salt concentration. G3 was least affected, followed by G2, G1, and G4. Fresh weight, dry weight, and percentage water content of the plants also significantly decreased with increased salinity. The distribution of Na+ ions in various plant parts showed a high concentration in the roots, stem, leaf blade, and leaf sheath of all genotypes. The highest concentration of Na+ ions was found in the leaf sheath of all genotypes, followed by the stem, root, and leaf blade, with high water content even under the highest salt levels. An effective partition of Na+ and Cl- ions in the leaf sheath and the transport of K+ to the physiologically important leaf blade were observed in G1, while other genotypes did not exhibit this efficiency. The specific ion effect of NaCl on the total N status of plants was most pronounced in G1, followed by G2 and G3, while G4 maintained optimal N levels in the root and leaf blade. The tolerant genotype G1 could be utilized for rehabilitation in salt-affected areas.

Genotype x environment interaction and yield stability of soybean (Glycine max l.) genotypes in multi-environment trials (METs) in Nigeria

Genotype × environment interaction (GEI) poses a critical challenge to plant breeders by complicating the identification of stable variety (ies) for performance across diverse environments. GGE biplot and AMMI analyses have been identified as the most effective and appropriate statistical techniques for identifying stable and high-performing genotypes across diverse environments. The objective of this study was to identify widely adapted and high-yielding soybean genotypes from Multi-Locational Trials (MLTs) using GGE and AMMI biplot analyses. Fifteen IITA-bred elite soybean lines and three standard checks were evaluated for stability of performance in a 3 × 6 alpha lattice design with three replications across seven locations in Nigeria. Significant (p < 0.001) differences were detected among genotypes, environments, and GEI for grain yield, which ranged between 979.8 kg ha−1 and 3645 kg ha−1 with a mean of 2324 kg ha−1. To assess the stability of genotypes, analyses were conducted using the general linear method, GGE, and the Additive Main Effect and Multiplicative Interaction (AMMI) approach, as well as WAAS and ASV rank indices. In the GGE biplot model, the first two principal components accounted for 67.4 % of the total variation, while in the AMMI model, the first two Interaction Principal Component Axes (IPCA1 and IPCA2) explained 73.20 % and 11.40 % of the variation attributed to genotype by environment interaction, respectively. GGE biplot identified G10 and G16 as the most stable and productive genotypes, while WAASB index revealed G16, G10, G9, G4 and G2 as the most adaptive, stable and productive genotypes across locations, and ASV identified G9, G13, G4, G14 and G10 as the most stable and productive.Consequently, genotypes G2, G4, G9, G10 and G16 displayed outstanding and stable grain yield performance across the test locations and are, therefore, recommended for release as new soybean varieties suitable for cultivation in the respective mega environment where they performed best. More importantly, the two genotypes are recommended for recycling as sources of high-yield and yield stability genes, and as parental lines for high-yield and stable performance for future breeding and genomic selection.

AMMI and GGE biplot analysis for barley genotype yield performance and stability under multi environment condition in southern Ethiopia

AbstractBarley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is a major grain crop farmed in Ethiopia throughout the long rainy season (Meher) and the short rainy season (Belg) of the year. Barley genotypes were subjected to multi‐environment experiments in six different settings to identify stable genotypes and estimate the impact of genotype × environment interaction (GEI) on grain production. In each area, the field experiment was conducted from mid‐July to January during the primary cropping season of 2021. Three replications of a randomized complete block design were used to set up the trials. According to the additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) study, genotype (18.19%), GEI (22.98%), and environment (58.83%) all had an impact on the major treatment sum of squares. The more variance attributed to the environments is a sign of environmental diversity. Given that the two interaction principal component analysis (IPCAs) accounted for 76.94% of the interaction sum of squares, they were sufficient for cross‐validation of the grain yield variance explained by GEI. In contrast to the GGE biplot approaches, which indicated genotypes G12, G3, and G9 as stable and high‐yielding genotypes throughout the environments, the AMMI stability value identified genotypes G3, G12, and G9 as high yielding with stable performance across environments. In general, the GGE biplot and AMMI analysis models demonstrated that genotypes G12, G3, and G9 were stable and yielded well, making G3 acceptable for cultivation in a wider range of environments and G12 and G9 suitable for release.

Analysis of genotype-by-environment interaction effect in barley genotypes using AMMI and GGE biplot methods

Genotype-by-environment interaction (GEI) analysis play a key role in any breeding program involving the development of new varieties for cultivation across various environments or in a specific region. The additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) method and the GGE biplot are the two main statistical tools that have emerged to analyze GEI in multi-environment trials (METs). The main goal of the present study was to identify the best-performing and stable barley genotypes for the warm regions of Iran. For this purpose, 18 new advanced barley genotypes were investigated in five warm locations in Iran during two cropping seasons (2021–2023). In all experiments, test genotypes were evaluated in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Based on results, grain yield was significantly dependent on environments (E), genotypes (G), and GEI. The GEI effect was further divided into three principal component axes (IPCAs). The AMMI method identified genotypes G3, G9, G10, and G14 as ideal genotypes due to their low IPCA scores and high performances. In the GGE biplot analysis, the initial two PCAs accounted for 49.36 % of the total variation of grain yield, including both G and GEI effects. Based on averaged two-year data, genotypes G3, G4, G10, and G14 showed particular adaptability in the Zabol and Moghan regions. Moreover, the ranking of test environments showed good discriminatory and representative abilities for the Zabol and Moghan regions, so these environments constituted a mega-environment in Iran's warm climate. The genotype ranking indicated G3, G10 and G14 genotypes as the superior genotypes with the highest grain yield and stability in different test environments. Moreover, these results were confirmed by the results obtained by WAASB and WAASBY biplots. In conclusion, genotypes G3, G10 and G14 can be suggested for commercial usage and cultivation in various regions in Iran's warm climate.

Assessment of phenotypic stability and adaptability of elite field pea (Pisum sativum L) genotypes in Arsi zone, Ethiopia

Field pea is a cool-season legume that thrives in cool, semiarid climates and can be grown in a wide range of soil types, from light sandy to heavy clay. Thirteen field pea genotypes underwent evaluation in seven different environments during the main growing seasons of 2016–2017. The study aimed to identify pea genotypes that are adapted and well-suited for commercial production for Ethiopian farmers and seed producers. The experiment was arranged using a randomized complete block design with four replications. The combined analysis of variance indicated highly significant differences (P < 0.01) for grain yield in all sources of variations (Genotype, Environment, and the interaction of genotype and environment) indicating that seed yield is affected by genotype, environment, and genotype-by-environment interaction. The main effect of the environment explained 67.8 % of the total variation, while the genotype and interaction accounted for 2.3 % and 7.6 %, respectively. The highest average grain yield came from genotype G10, with 3448 kg/ha, followed by genotype G11 with 3371 kg/ha, compared to the other genotypes and with an overall average of 3051 kg/ha across seven environments while the lowest yield was from genotype G7. The GGE biplot of the first two principal components indicated that Component 1 explained 40.23 % and Component 2 explained 33.29 % of the genotype by environment interaction sum of squares. Some genotypes, such as G10, G1, G13 demonstrated significantly higher yields than the average, while others like G7, G2, G3, and G6 had yields lower than the average. Both AMMI and GGE bplot identifies Genotypes G1, G8, and G4 showed the highest stability, with G1 being identified as the most ideal genotype due to its high yield and stability. Conversely, G11 and G3 were considered to be unstable based on their positioning in the graph. The genotypes located at the peaks of the polygon, either lower or higher performance G2, G7, G3, G13, and G10, were considered the vertex genotypes.