Analysis of the phenotypic variability of twenty f3 biparental populations of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) evaluated under semi-arid environment

Abstract

This research was conducted to screen and analyse the variability within twenty F₃ populations of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) generated by Line x Tester mating design. The results indicated the presence of sufficient variability within and between F₃ populations for the eight measured variables, which represent plant phenology, physiology, yield and yield components. Different populations have been identified to improve the measured variables separately. The number of spikes appeared to be the most important determinant of grain yield. PCA and cluster analyses indicated that the Acsad1069/El Wifak and Acsad1135/Hidhab, with a relatively high grain yield,  aboveground biomass and 1000 grains weight, are the best F₃ populations to improve the productivity. However, Acsad899/Rmada and Acsad1135/Rmada populations were earlier and had a low number of spikes. These populations had also favorable genes for heat tolerance.

Keywords: Triticum aestivum L.; Variability; Selection; Tolerance; Yield.