Analysis of yield stability of malt barley genotypes under terminal moisture stressed areas of North Wollo, Ethiopia

Field experiments were conducted at Estayish, Geregera and Kon testing sites of Sirinka Agricultural Research Center (SARC), North Wollo, Ethiopia for two consecutive years (2013 and 2014) during the main season with the objective of evaluating the performance of malt barley genotypes for grain yield and yield stability under diverse environments. Fifteen promising malt barley genotypes, along with the standard check (Miscal 21) were evaluated using Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD), replicated three times. Genotypes were row-planted on a plot size of 3 m2. N and P2O5, in the form of Urea and Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP) fertilizers, were applied at the rate of 23 kg ha-1 and 46 kg ha-1, respectively and all other cultural practices were carried-out uniformly for all treatments as required. Grain yield was recorded from the central four rows (2 m2) and measured with sensitive balance. Data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using Genstat software package 16th edition. Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT) was used to separate means. Genotype by Genotype-Environment (GGE) biplot model was employed to analyze phenotypic stability of malt barley genotypes for grain yield. ANOVA depicted significant variations (p<0.01) among genotypes (G), years (Y), locations (L) and their two and three way interactions for grain yield. The presence of significant variations among the tested malt barley genotypes for grain yield indicated the possibility of improving productivity of malt barley through selection. However, the existence Genotype x Environment Interaction (GEI) revealed differential response of malt barley genotype across environments, necessitating to develop environmentally less sensitive malt barley genotype. Analysis of GGE revealed that G6 and G11 were close to the ideal genotype and hence recommended for major barley producing areas of North Wollo.