Yield response of Kabuli-type chickpea genotypes to different environmental conditions using AMMI and GGE biplot methods

To evaluate the genotype × environment (G × E) interaction and stability of grain yield in the Kabuli type chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.), 15 white chickpea genotypes were evaluated in a randomized complete block design with four replications in Kurdistan, Maragheh, and Zandjan stations during three successive years under spring dryland conditions. Combined analysis of variance showed significant variation (p < 0.05) among the genotypes for grain yield. The results of AMMI (additive main effects and multiplicative interaction) analysis showed that the two first components (PC1 and PC2) of interaction were highly significant (p < 0.01) and accounted for 52% and 34% of the G × E interaction, respectively. The AMMI model determined the best combinations of genotypes and environments for grain yield. FLIP 09-369C had the highest level of stability under the present test conditions, which can be considered as a new cultivar. Also, the interaction effect of GE was studied by the GGE biplot method. According to the singular value decomposition, the first two principal components explained 52% and 34% of the total variation. Based on the GGE biplot method, the genotypes FLIP 09-369c, FLIP 09-365c, and FLIP 09-247c had higher grain yield and stability than other genotypes. The GGE biplot analysis divided the environments into two mega-environments including KURDISTAN-MARAGHEH and ZANDJAN, and for each mega-environment, FLIP 09-369C and FLIP 09-251C lines were recommended, respectively. The study also indicated that FLIP 09-364C, Samin, and FLIP 09-212C were identified as lines with general adaptability.