Vol. 12(2), pp. 109-117, June 2024
https://doi.org/10.14662/arjasr2024120
Copyright 2024
Author(s) retain the copyright of this article
ISSN: 2360-7874
http://www.academicresearchjournals.org/ARJASR/Index.htm
 

Research paper

Genotype by Environment Interaction and Yield Stability of Maize (Zea mays L.) in Major Maize Growing Areas of Ethiopia.

 

Yednekachew Merid1, habtamuzeleke2 Girum Azmach2*

 

1Haramaya University1;Wubano@gmail.com 2Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research Bako National Maize Research2;gamekonnen@gmail.com. 2*Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Wondogenet Agricultural Research, Hawassa Maize Sub-Center1; yidnems@gmail.com

 

Accepted 12 June 2024

Abstract

Conducting multi-location trials along with the commercial varieties and genotype by environment (G x E) data analysis are vital to breeders to develop superior genotypes and to meet the challenges posed by environmental factors. This research was undertaken to evaluate maize hybrids for yield, to assess the effect of G x E on grain yield, and determine the yield stability of hybrids across major maize growing areas of Ethiopia. A total of 24 maize hybrids including standard checks (BH547, BH547, BH661 and Limu) were evaluated at six locations (Bako, Jimma, Pawe, Ambo Wendogenet and Asosa) in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications during the 2020 cropping season. The hybrids had significant differences for grain yeild at all locations. The mean squares for genotype, location and G x E were significant. The analysis of variance from Additive Main Effects and Multiplicative Interaction (AMMI) model for grain yield showed significant (P<0.01) effect of environment, genotype, G x E, PC1 and PC2. Environment, genotype, and G x E interaction accounted for about 58.64, 11.78, and 22.03% of the total sum of squares, respectively. The two principal components axes (PC1 and PC2) contributed 62 % to the total sum square of G x E. The SXM1910007hybrid had the highest yielding of all genotype with mean grain yield of 8.68 t/ha that had showed dynamic stability. The two hybrids, WE3106 and WE7131 had mean grain yield of 8.06 t/ha and 7.98t/ha, respectively, which was higher than best commercial checks. These hybrids along with other two hybrids (WE3105and 3XM1900476) were identified as most stable hybrids for yield by AMMI stability value, yield stability index and other stability parameters.

 

Key words: Dry matter, leaf-to-stem,and Oat - vetch mixture

 

How to cite this article (APA Style): Yednekachew, M., habtamuzeleke, Girum, A. (2024). Genotype by Environment Interaction and Yield Stability of Maize (Zea mays L.) in Major Maize Growing Areas of Ethiopia. Acad. Res. J. Agri. Sci. Res. 12(2): 109-117