Genotype × Environment Interaction and Multi-environment Evaluation of Yield Stability in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)
Abstract
Background: Significant genotype × environment interactions (GEI) can mask true genetic potential and reduce selection efficiency. Therefore, multi-environment trials (METs), combined with robust analytical tools such as AMMI and GGE biplot analyses, are essential for dissecting GEI effects, identifying stable high-yielding genotypes and defining suitable mega-environments for targeted cultivation. Methods: In this study, 14 groundnut genotypes were evaluated across seven locations in Andhra Pradesh, namely Kadiri, Ananthapuramu, Tirupati, Utukuru, Darsi, Yellamanchili and Peddapuram during Kharif, 2024 using a randomized complete block design with three replications. AMMI, GGE biplot and multi trait stability index (MTSI) analyses were worked-out to identify stable and high-yielding genotypes across environments. Result: AMMI analysis showed that environments contributed the highest variation for pod yield (78.58%) and kernel yield (79.73%), followed by GEI and genotype. GGE biplot analysis identified Kadiri as an ideal test environment, owing to its high discriminating ability and representativeness. The which-won-where pattern revealed Kadiri Lepakshi, TCGS 2410 and TCGS 2306 as winning genotypes across most environments. Multi-trait stability index analysis identified TCGS 2438 as a balanced genotype for yield and quality traits. Overall, TCGS 2306 and TCGS 2410 exhibited stable and superior yield performance across diverse environments, highlighting their potential for commercial cultivation following multi-year validation.