GGE Biplot Analysis and Agronomic Performance of Tef Genotypes in Moisture Deficit Stress Areas of Eastern Amhara Regional State

Moisture deficit stress, as a recurrent phenomenon in eastern Amhara Regional State, has constrained tef productivity. This necessitates the development of moisture deficit stress tolerant varieties. The objective of the present study was to identify and recommend higher-yielding genotypes for wide and/or specific adaptation in moisture deficit stress areas. Sixteen tef genotypes, bred for moisture deficit stress conditions, were evaluated at Sirinka, Simada, Shewarobit and Sekota in 2014 and 2015. The study was laid out in RCBD with three replications. The combined analysis of variance showed that the environment, genotype, and genotype by environment interaction were significant (p<0.05) for yield and yield related parameters. The highest grain yield (2.73 t ha-1) was recorded by G1 followed by G7 (2.52 t ha-1). The first two principal components, IPC1 and IPC2, accounted for 74.63% and 12.91% of the total variation, respectively. G1 was the best genotype at Simada, Shewarobit and Sekota while G11 was the best at Sirinka. Visualizing the mean and stability parameters of the genotypes, G1 had both high grain yield and stability and can be categorized for wide adaptation while G5, G7, G9 and G11 had high mean performance but low stability, and can be categorized for specific adaptation. The remaining genotypes exhibited low mean grain yield and low stability in which they adapted nowhere in the test locations. According to the ideal-genotype biplot, G1 followed by G7 were the most desirable genotypes. These were, thus, promoted to variety release verification, and G1 was officially released with the vernacular name “Hiber-1” for production in moisture deficit stress tef growing areas of eastern Amhara Regional State.