Agronomic Performance and Yield Stability of Maize (Zea mays L.) Hybrids under Drought Stress in the Sudanian Savanna of Côte d'Ivoire

Abstract

Background: Climate variability and increasing rainfall irregularity in West Africa, particularly in the Sudanian savanna zones of Côte d'Ivoire, pose significant challenges to stable cereal production. Consequently, there is a critical need to identify crop varieties that combine high yield potential with resilience to drought and fluctuating environmental conditions. Aims: The study aims to evaluate the stability of grain yield under abiotic stress is a major challenge for enhancing the resilience of cereal-based cropping systems in West Africa. Place and Duration of Study: This study characterises the performance and stability of seven maize genotypes (five experimental hybrids and two checks) across two contrasting environments in northern Côte d’Ivoire : Ferké (favourable rainfall conditions) and Boundiali (severe water stress during the grain-filling phase). Study Design: The experimental design was a randomised complete block design with three replications. Results: Analysis of variance revealed highly significant effects for genotypes, environments, and the genotype × environment interaction. At Ferké, mean grain yields reached 5.79 t/ha, whereas a drastic reduction was observed at Boundiali with a mean of 2.63 t/ha. GGE biplot analysis decomposed the interaction and identified two distinct mega-environments. Hybrid A1909-9 exhibited remarkable stability and balanced performance across both sites, while EWH-118 demonstrated the highest tolerance to stress, achieving 4.35 t/ha at Boundiali. In contrast, the check FMB showed high sensitivity, with a yield reduction of 60%. Conclusion: Hybrids A1909-9 and EWH-118 display the most promising adaptability profiles and are recommended for dissemination to enhance maize productivity and food security in the Sudanian savannah zone subject to climate variability.