Adaptive Response of Chickpea Varieties with Diverse Breeding Pathways Across Six Contrasting Semi-arid Environments using AMMI and GGE Biplot Analysis

This study aimed to evaluate the variety × environment interaction for high grain yields and stability of chickpea varieties with different breeding pathways, across six contrasting semi-arid environments.

During one cropping season, trials were conducted at the farmers’ fields. Ten genotypes were evaluated in a completely randomized block design, with three replicates in six semi-arid contrasting environments. Analysis of variance, AMMI and GGE biplot models were used.

Genetic variability of grain yield was strongly influenced by the environment that explained almost 26% of the total variance, whereas the GxE interaction explained 16%, highlighting the importance of genotype-specific adaptation. Two discriminating environments, E5 and E4 were selected. The introduced variety G8-IV showed excellent stability and high yield (1.32 t-ha^-1), demonstrating its plasticity. Similarly, participatory variety G4-PS showed high stability despite its selection in a specific terroir, demonstrating a wider-than-expected capacity for adaptation. Conversely, some local varieties, such as G1-LV, showed narrower adaptation limited to environments such as E3. These elements allow breeding to be oriented towards the greater resilience of farming systems in the face of climatic variability.