Evaluation of Novel Soybean Genotypes for Yield, Yield components, Seed Quality and Resistance to Cotton Leafworm

Abstract

The current study was carried out at the experimental farm of Sakha Agricultural Research Station during 2020 and 2021 seasons. Sixteen soybean promising lines were evaluated for yield, yield components, seed quality and resistance to the cotton leafworm. H6L148, H5L41, H6L146 genotypes and Crawford cultivar were the earliest maturing ones and H1L4, H6L146, and H3L129 were the highest pod producing (125 -137 pods/plant). The highest seed yields were obtained from H3L129, H5L26, H5L137, H6L159 and H6L48 , while the lowest yields were those of H1L4, H4L130 genotype and Crawford cultivar. Oil percentages ranged between 21.70 and 26.43%, with the genotypes H5L137 and H4L130 having the highest values, while seeds of Giza 111 and Crawford harboured the lowest levels. Seeds of H3L4, H1L4 and Giza 111 had the highest protein percentage, while the lowest percentages were detected in seeds of H7L165, H6L48 and Crawford. The average larval populations of cotton leafworm were low 30 days after sowing (DAS), increased progressively to be highest 60 and 75 DAS. Depending on defoliated leaflet areas, the genotypes, H3 L129, H6 L48 and Giza111 were categorized as highly resistant to cotton leafworm, while H3 L120, H4L130, H3L4 genotypes and Crawford variety were categorized as susceptible. From the current study, it could be concluded that the soybean promising lines, H5 L137, H5L26 and H6 L159 are superior in seed yield, and seed oil and protein contents, and could be good candidates for promotion in soybean breeding program.