Stability analysis and G×E interaction study in sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) hybrids for yield across different environments using AMMI and GGE models

Abstract

Stability analysis plays a vital role in plant breeding and this involves the evaluation of the genetic performance of genotypes under varying environmental conditions. Sunflower, a valuable oilseed crop primarily cultivated for its edible oil and confectionary purposes, is known for its high yield potential. However, the performance of sunflower is significantly influenced by genotype-environment interactions. Thereby, here in this study, a set of thirty-three hybrids along with three checks were evaluated across three different seasons, viz., kharif 2023, rabi 2023-2024, and summer 2024. Analysis on hybrid performance revealed that, kharif followed by rabi and summer was identified to be the most favourable. The AMMI biplots highlighted the stability of hybrids namely, H9, H22, H19, H23, H16, and checks C3, C1. Hence, based on their comparative performance, the hybrids viz., H13 and H24 exhibited higher yields in AMMI biplots across environments. Moreover, the GGE biplots, portrayed the higher stable performance of the check C1 and the hybrid H13 across environments. The hybrids, viz., H24, H13, and H32 were also identified for their high yield and moderate stability, making them desirable choices for further evaluation.In conclusion, from the «which won where» biplot it was indicated that the hybrids H13 and H24 were the stable cum desirable performers from all locations. Therefore, these genotypes could be forwarded for developing stable and high-yielding sunflower hybrids in future breeding programs.