Genotype x Environment Interaction and Stability Analysis for Forge Yield and Its Contributing Traits in Oats (Avena sativa L.)

The objectives of this research were to assess genotype environment interaction and determine stable oat (Avena sativa L.) cultivar in Kashmir division over three locations for fodder yield and its components in 10 genetically diverse genotypes using randomized block design. There was considerable variation in forage yield within and across environments. Stability analysis for forage yield was conducted to check the response to Genotype x Environment interactions. The mean squares due to G x E (linear) were significant depicting genetic differences among genotypes for linear response to varying environments. Mean squares due to pooled deviations were highly significant, reflecting considerable differences among genotypes for non-linear response. Out of ten genotypes, only four oats lines i.e., Sabzaar, SKO 211, SKO 212 and SKO 213 showed non-significant deviation from regression and their regression coefficient values were close to unity classified were desirable for forgeand dry matter yield across the environments. The cultivar, “SKO 212” with respective regression coefficient value of 1.001, the smallest deviations from regressions (S²di) value and the highest green forage yield could be considered the most widely adapted cultivar and their utilization in future breeding programme. The other test cultivars were sensitive to production-limiting factors, their wider adaptability, stability and general performance to the fluctuating growing conditions within and across environments being lowered.