Genotype × Environment Interaction and Yield Stability of Hopeful Cotton (G.hirsutum L.) Genotypes

The objective of this study was to determine genotype × environment (GE) interaction and yield stability of ten cotton genotypes. The trials were conducted at randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four replications at six locations during 2014-2015 cropping seasons. Combined analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed significant difference among genotypes (G), environment (E) and genotype × environment interactions (GE) for yield, boll weight, boll number, earliness index and monopod branches number. The K8802 performed high yielding genotype (3691 kgh-1) followed by NSK847, SKSH-249, BC-244 and GKTB-113. According to yield, stability parameters and adaptability analysis, the NSK847, SKSH-249 and GKTB-113 were ideal genotypes with broad adaptability. Specific adaptation genotypes (e.g. K8802) are ideal for maximizing yield and yield stability in stress conditions. Stability parameters similarity for genotype selection ranged from 67 to 100 percent. Significant relationships were found between yield and stability parameters (except for regression coefficient, bi). Finally, our results recommend the NSK-847 for release as commercial cultivar followed by GKTB-113 and SKSH-249 in cotton breeding program of Iran.