Genetic Variability and Stability of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) Genotypes for Yield and Yield Components Across Locations

Abstract

The study was carried out using groundnut genotypes to analyze the genetic variability, stability and association among stability parameters of nine groundnut genotypes along with checks for yield and yield attributing traits. Significant variations in the genotypes of all the traits under study were found using analysis of variance. Among the nine traits studied, hundred pod kernel weight (g) showed the most promising combination of high heritability (73%) and genetic advance (14.21%), indicating the predominance of additive gene effects and suggesting that direct selection for this trait will be effective in yield improvement. Other traits such as hundred pod weight (g) and hundred kernel weight (g) also showed moderate potential for selection. Further, traits shelling percentage, days to maturity, dry haulm yield (g/plot) and dry pod yield (g/plot) are largely influenced by the environment, hence indirect selection through component traits may be more efficient. The most promising genotypes were PGN C3 and PGN 2, which combined high yield and excellent stability across environments, according to AMMI stability metrics and biplot studies. The combination of correlated (ASI, ASV, MASI, MASV) and less correlated (AMGE, Za, SIPC) indices would provide a more comprehensive understanding of genotype stability across environments. These stable lines could be used as parents in various breeding programs.