Evaluation of genotype x environment interaction using GGE-biplot on dry beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) in Limpopo province of South Africa

Abstract

Dry bean is the second most important legume crop in South Africa due to its high protein content. GGE- Biplot was used to evaluate genotype x environment interaction (GEI) and stability performance of dry bean genotypes during 2011 and 2012 growing seasons. Eight dry bean genotypes were planted at different locations in the Limpopo province, South Africa with different agro-climatic characteristics. The genotypes used were OPS-RS1, Jenny, Kranskop, DBS310, OPS-RS4, DBS 360, OPS-RS2 and OPS-RS5. The ANOVA analysis results for grain yield, number of pods per plant and number of seeds per plant revealed that the environment contributed more to the total variation followed by GEI and finally genotype. According to GGE biplot for grain yield, OPS- RS1 was regarded as the more stable genotype and had the highest mean yield, DBS 360 had the highest mean number of pods per plant and DBS 310 produced the highest mean number of seeds per plant. The GGE biplot methodology clearly presented the GEI relationship among environments and genotypes.