Abstract

Genotype x environment interaction (GEI) and stability of protein content across locations could be helpful in identifying wheat lines with premium quality. The protein contents of 25 selected durum wheat genotypes tested over six environments in 2017 to evaluate genotype by environment interactions and identify stable genotypes for protein content. Protein content was determined based on Mini-infra Smart T Grain Analyzer. The combined analysis of variance indicated that highly significant variations were observed among genotypes, environments and their interactions on grain protein. The largest variation accounted by environments, followed by GEI and then genotypes. The stability analysis using parametric measures identified as G23 the most stable genotype followed by G1 with above average grain protein content of 14.5 and 15.1%. The additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) analysis showed that the first two (Interaction Principal Component Axes Scores (IPCAs) explained about 70% of the variations in GEI. Genotype main effect and genotype by Environment Interaction (GGE) biplot analysis categorized the environments in to three mega environments where Akaki and Gimbichu grouped together and that Debre-Zeit light soil and Alemtena with in the second mega environment. The genotypes respond similarly for protein content at Minjar and Debre-Zeit black soil environment.

Key words: AMMI, AMMI Stability Value (ASV), durum wheat, genotype by Environment Interaction (GGE) biplot, protein content, stability.