Yield stability and test location representativeness in foxtail millet [Setaria italica (L.) Beauv.] genotypes

Development of a crop variety with high grain yield and stability in test locations is an important part of crop breeding program. Thirteen foxtail millet genotypes were evaluated in randomized complete block design with three replications in Jumla and Dolakha, Nepal from April to August in three consecutive years 2017, 2018, and 2019. The objective of this study was to analyze grain yield stability and adaptability of foxtail millet genotypes applying genotype main effect plus genotype by environment interaction (GGE) biplot analysis. The results showed that grain yields were significantly (P<0.05) affected by the environment (E), genotype (G), and their interaction (G×E). The genotype HUMLA-163 had regression coefficient equal to unity (b=1.01), thus this genotype had average adaptation to all environments whereas HUMLA-213 (b=1.18) and HUMLA-252 (b=1.19) had regression coefficients greater than unity, thus these genotypes were more adapted to favorable environments. GGE biplot showed that HUMLA-163 was more stable and adaptive genotype. Thus, genotype HUMLA-163 is recommended for release as a variety to improve foxtail millet production in hilly region of Nepal.