Genotypes × environment interaction for grain yield of finger millet under hilly region of Nepal

Abstract

Grain yield stability on new finger millet genotypes through G × E interaction analysis is an important task for finger millet breeding programs. Sixteen promising finger millet (Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn.) genotypes were eval- uated in randomized complete block design replicated over two locations viz. Kabre, Dolakha; and Vijaynagar, Jumla, Nepal over three years (2017, 2018 and 2019). The stability parameters were computed for grain yield after Eberhart and Russell. The pooled analysis of variance revealed that the genotypes and genotype × environment (G × E) interaction were significant for grain yield. The genotypes KLE-559 produced the highest grain yield (3.32 t ha⁻¹). The genotypes namely KLE-559 (b = 1.15) and ACC#2843 (b = 1.12) had more than unity regression indicating the genotype’s suitability towards favorable environments. GGE biplot showed genotype KLE-559 was stable genotype under tested environments. Thus, this genotype was recommended for release as variety to improve finger millet production in hilly environments of Nepal.