Genotype x environment interaction and selection foryield and related traits in soybean

Abstract

Fifteen genotypes of soybeans (Glycine max L.Merr.) were grown in three locations of Ibadan, Abeokuta and Ogbomoso during the late planting season of 2001, 2002 and 2003. Data on yield and yield traits were subjected to combined analysis of variance. There were variations in the years of production as the relative performance of the genotypes with respect to all the traits were significant under the genotype x year (Gen. x yr) effect. However, days to maturity, number of pods per plant and number of branches per plant were significant under the genotype x location (Gen. x loc.), and the third order interaction effect of Gen. x loc. x yr. Branch number per plant gave negative but significant phenotypic correlation with number of seeds per pod and weight of seeds while its correlation with seed yield was positive in Ogbomoso and Abeokuta locations. Significant genotypic correlation were observed between number of seeds per pod with seed weight and seed yield for Ibadan and Ogbomoso locations though its correlation with seed weight in Ogbomoso location was negative. The significant genotypic correlation of days to maturity with pod number and branch number ensures that these traits would be successfully selected for in yield improvement of soybean for Abeokuta and Ogbomoso locations. Number of seeds per pod and days to maturity with high heritability estimates and significant genotypic correlations can be reliably selected for when soybean improvement is targeted for Ibadan and Ogbomoso specific locations. Keywords : Correlation; environment; genotype; heritability; locations; traits Moor Journal of Agricultural Research Vol. 6 (1&2) 2005 pp. 81-86