Stability analysis for seed yield and component traits in amaranthus [Amaranthus hypochondriacus L.] in the high altitude dry temperate regions

Abstract

Joint regression analysis over eight environments in 8 genetically diverse amaranth genotypes during kharif seasons of 2001-2004 at Sangla (Distt. Kinnaur) and Salooni (Distt. Chamba) indicated the presence of genotype x environment interaction for all the traits studied. Significant pooled deviations for all the traits indicated predominance of the nonlinear component. Estimates of stability parameters revealed that no genotype was stable for the traits studied. Based on the mean performance (x), genotypes Annapurna, Suvarna and PRA-1 showed significantly higher seed yield than the Local check. Suvarna was significantly early in flowering (54 days) and maturity (107 days) than the other genotypes, whereas PRA-1 showed maximum mean plant height and inflorescence length. Significant linear regression coefficient value for seed yield indicated above average (b>1) stability for the genotype Annapurna i.e. suitability for the input responsive environment, whereas for plant height the genotype was significantly least responsive i.e. exhibited below average (b less than 1) stability showing fitness for the low yielding environment. PRA-1 was also found to be significantly responsive for plant height in comparison to the Local check. Genotypes PRA-2 and the Local check exhibited least responsiveness for days to 50% flowering. Considering the stability parameters in general, genotype Suvarna is by far the best genotype followed by Annapurna and PRA-1 for cultivation in the higher regions of Himachal Pradesh.