Genotype and Environment Interaction and Yield Stability Analysis of Hexaploid Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Using AMMI and GGE Biplot Models under Contrasting Agro-Climatic Conditions

Abstract

Bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a strategic cereal crop for global food security, yet its productivity is increasingly threatened by climate variability and environmental heterogeneity. This study evaluated genotype × environment (G × E) interaction and yield stability of hexaploid wheat genotypes under contrasting agro-climatic conditions using combined ANOVA, AMMI, GGE biplot, and correlation analyses. The combined ANOVA revealed highly significant (p ≤ 0.01) effects of genotypes, environments, and G × E interaction, indicating substantial genetic variability and differential genotype responses across testing sites. AMMI analysis partitioned the interaction variance into significant principal components, identifying stable genotypes with near-zero IPCA scores and specifically adapted genotypes with large interaction effects. GGE biplot analysis further illustrated the “which-won-where” pattern and delineated mega-environments, enabling identification of superior and widely adapted genotypes. Correlation analysis revealed positive associations between grain yield and key agronomic traits, suggesting the potential for indirect selection to enhance breeding efficiency. The integration of parametric and multivariate stability models improved the precision of genotype evaluation and selection. Overall, the study identified high-yielding and stable genotypes suitable for broad adaptation and highlighted the importance of multi-environment testing in wheat breeding programs aimed at enhancing productivity and resilience under climate variability.