The Stability of Sugar Yield in Promising Sugarcane Genotypes (Saccharum officinarum L.)

Abstract

Stability analysis is one of the most important steps that a breeder should use to release a new variety for a region. To identify and introduce the best sugarcane genotypes, an experiment with 26 promising Sugarcane genotypes along with four commercial varieties was planned and implemented during 2017–2019. This study aimed to determine a promising stable sugarcane genotype for the sugarcane-growing areas of Khuzestan Province in Iran. The effects of genotype × environment interactions on the sugar yield of 26 promising sugarcane genotypes and four standard varieties as controls were investigated for the new plant (P), first ratoon (R1), and second ratoon (R2) at three locations (Amir Kabir, Imam Khomeini, and Mianab) for three cropping seasons. For the final analysis every year, quantitative and qualitative characteristics were measured by sampling 10 stalks of each genotype in each replication and each experiment. A combined analysis was conducted with regard to the fixed effects of the genotype and environment and the random effect of the year. The sugar yield stability of the genotypes was evaluated based on nonparametric, ecovalence, Shukla, simultaneous selection, and AMMI statistical methods. According to the results, $g_2,g_4,g_5,g_7,g_{11},g_{12},g_{14},g_{16},g_{19},g_{20},g_{21},g_{23},g_{24},g_{26},g_{27},g_{28},g_{29}$, and $g_{30}$ are the most stable genotypes based on statistical analyses. As these genotypes have general stability and can be cultivated in three crops, they are introduced for commercial cultivation. According to an AMMI biplot, genotype $g_6$ was considered to have special adaptation to the first location (Imam Khomeini), genotypes $g_8$ and $g_{15}$ were specifically adapted to the second location (Amir Kabir), and genotypes $g_{10},g_{17}$, and $g_{22}$ showed special adaptation to the third location (Mianab). Therefore, these genotypes are introduced for commercial cultivation in the mentioned locations.