Comparative Performance of Improved and Local Cowpea Varieties for Growth, Yield, and Stress Resilience in Taraba State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study evaluated the growth, yield, stress resilience and stability of improved and local cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) varieties across Jalingo, Bali and Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria. The experiment was conducted in 2025 using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Six varieties comprising three improved (IT08K-180-11, IT84S-2246-4 and Sampea 11) and three local (Yebberellu, Yar’arbain and Kanannado) varieties were evaluated for growth, flowering, maturity, yield, drought tolerance, insect-pest and disease resistance. Data were analysed using analysis of variance, correlation, AMMI and GGE biplot approaches at 5% probability level. Significant differences occurred among varieties and locations for major growth and yield traits. Sampea 11 recorded the highest plant height (56.8 cm), branches (7.9 plant⁻¹), biomass yield (7,767 kg ha⁻¹), 100-seed weight (20.0 g) and grain yield (3,417 kg ha⁻¹). It also flowered and matured earliest (43.3 and 70.3 days, respectively), indicating drought-escape potential. It had the lowest aphid (6.2%), thrips (8.9%) and disease (9.2%) incidence and the highest stress-resilience score (4.23). Bali recorded the highest mean grain yield (3,325 kg ha⁻¹), while Wukari had the lowest (2,758 kg ha⁻¹). Location and variety significantly affected grain yield, whereas their interaction was not significant. Stability analysis showed that Sampea 11 combined high yield with good stability (bi = 1.04). Sampea 11 was therefore the most productive, stress-resilient and broadly adapted variety and is recommended for similar agro-ecological environments in Taraba State.