Agronomic Performance and GGE-biplot Analysis of Tef Genotypes Evaluated in Multi-environment Trials in Western Amhara, Ethiopia

The low productivity of tef needs to be improved through concerted research efforts. Multi-environment variety trial was conducted on 14 tef genotypes at Adet, Mota, and Bichena from 2016 to 2018 to identify and recommend high yielding and stable genotypes. The trial was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Data on grain yield and yield related traits were collected. A combined analysis was carried out. The yield data were also graphically visualized for interpreting genotype by environment interaction (GEI) using GGE biplot. Combined analysis of variance showed highly significant variation for all measured traits. The highest grain yield (2.8 t ha-1) was recorded by G-11 which excelled the standard check by 18.1%. GEI showed significant variations for most of the traits examined, IPC1 and IPC2 accounted for 58.64% and 34.10%, respectively. The polygon tool of the biplot suggested the existence of three winning genotypes (G-11, G-3, G-1) and one mega environment. Both the location relationship and the ideal location biplots indicated that Adet can be discriminating and representative of the mega environment. G-11 was the winner genotype in the sector where all of the testing locations fall and also found closer to the ideal genotype. In conclusion, the combined analysis for all measured parameters and GGE biplot analysis for grain yield indicated that G-11 (353*Key muri (RIL 29) was found high yielding and stable. It also showed moderate tolerance to lodging and has white seeded grain that can fetch high market price. Thus, it has been officially released with a local name “Washera” for major tef growing areas of western Amhara and similar areas in the country. Finally, as a future breeding research strategy, activities on crossing and mega environment determination are suggested to be given due attention to bring a difference in tef production and productivity in the region.