Stability analyses of fibres yield of kenaf using multiple biometrical models

Abstract

Multiple models have been used to examine stability in many crops, but little of such exits for kenaf. Relationship of stability estimates of various models reveals the importance of one or more estimates for reliable predictions of cultivar behaviour and stability. This study evaluated 33 kenaf genotypes across six location for core and bast fibre yield stability using four models. Kenaf were grown in a four row plot, 5 m each, at 0.2 m within row and 0.5 m between rows in the trial laid out in randomized complete block design with three replications. Twenty plants were randomly harvested per plot at 12 weeks after planting and processed to fibres. Dry core fibre weight (CFW) and bast fibre weight (BFW) were taken. Data collected were pooled across locations and subjected to analysis of variance. Genotypes stability were estimated using Finlay-Wilkinson, Wricke’s ecovalence (Wi), Kang’s rank sum and superiority index models. Correlations among the weights and stability models were performed. Significant differences existed in the genotypes (G) (p< 0.01), environments (E) and G×E for CFW and BFW. Partitioning the G×E showed that genotypes linear response and deviation from the mean were significant for CFW and BFW. Significant and positive correlation existed between Finlay- Wilkinson and Kang’s rank sum (0.570***), Wi (0.615***) and superiority index (0.582***) for CFW. Significant correlations also existed between the efficacy of Kang’s rank sum and Wi (0.569***), and with superiority index (0.779***). Kang’s rank sum correlated with Finlay-Wilkinson (0.345**), while Wi model had correlation with Finlay-Wilkinson (0.538**) and Kang’s rank sum (0.318**) for the BFW. All the models correlated with one another. Any of the models is sufficient to select stable genotypes in kenaf fibre yield breeding programmes.