AMMI and GGE-Biplot Analyses of Taro (Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schott) Genotypes in Southwest Ethiopia

Abstract

The study was conducted in major taro growing areas of Jimma, Agaro, Gera and Metu for two consecutive cropping seasons (20219-2021). Nine genotypes and one standard check were evaluated to identify high yielding and stable genotypes for further breeding works. The experiment was established by using a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. Data for yield and yield related traits were collected and analyzed using the additive main effect and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) and genotype main effect plus genotype by environment interaction (GGE) bi-plot analyses. The result of the combined analysis of variance revealed significant differences (p<0.01) for genotype, environment and genotype by environment interaction effects for all the traits considered except for root length. The average total storage root yield of the genotypes across the eight environments was 25.69 t/ha. Genotypes 053, 133 and Kiyaq gave the highest yield of 29.17 t/ha, 26.36 t/ha and 25.99 t/ha root yield, respectively. Genotype 165 was the lowest performing genotype and it produced average storage root yield of 24.1 t/ha. AMMI and GGE bi-plot analyses revealed that genotypes 053 and 133 were the ideal genotypes with high yield and wider adaptability. On the other hand, genotypes 165, 130, 023 and 032 were found to be unstable genotypes. Furthermore, AMMI and GGE bi-plot exhibited Agaro-2 and Gera-2 were the most discriminating and representative environment for the evaluation of taro genotypes for yield and yield components. Genotypes 053 and 133 were found to be widely adaptable and had yield stability across environments. Therefore, the two genotypes are recommended for release for production in southwest Ethiopia