Analysis of genotype by environment interaction effect on faba bean (Vicia faba) elite genotype yield performance and stability in Ethiopia

Abstract

Increasing faba bean production is indispensable to supply the growing demand for plant-based protein on a global scale. A thorough understanding of genotype-environment interaction patterns is critical to developing high-yielding varieties with wider adaptation. Twelve faba bean genotypes were evaluated in 10 environments during 2018–2019 in Ethiopia to estimate the effect of genotype by environment interaction on grain yield and identify stable genotypes. The results revealed significant differences among the genotypes, indicating that certain varieties consistently performed better across diverse conditions. This stability underscores the potential for these selected genotypes to contribute effectively to sustainable agriculture and food security in the region. The study found substantial differences (P < 0.001) between genotypes, environments, and G × E interactions. This suggests that genotypes respond differently across environments, allowing for stability analysis. Environmental variance was larger (83 % of overall variation), with genotype and genotype-by-environment interaction accounting for 6 % and 11 %, respectively. The average grain yield of the faba bean genotypes varied by environment, from 2791.22 kg/ha for genotype G7 to 3300.43 kg/ha for the standard checks variety Tumsa (G12). A genotype plus genotype by environment interaction biplot is created by plotting the first principal component (PC1 = 38.25) scores of the genotypes and environments against their respective second principal component (PC2 = 21.95) scores, which explained 60.2 % of the total variation. According to the polygon view analysis, genotypes G6, G9, and G10 are the best fit for the test conditions. Notably, genotypes G12 and G8 have demonstrated great yield and stability, making them ideal candidates for production in diverse environments.