GGE biplot analysis of multi-location yield trial of ginger (Zingiber Officinale Rosc.) Genotypes in South-Eastern, Nigeria

Abstract

Multi-location trials were conducted in 2016 and 2017 at Calabar, Ikom and Ogoja in Cross River State, Nigeria, to determine the yield stability of 17 ginger genotypes (G1-G17) using genotype and genotype by environment (GGE) biplot model. The location and year combination gave six environments (E1-E6). The experiment was laid out in split plots using a randomized complete block design with three replications. Yield related traits like rhizome fingers, rhizome length, and rhizome yield were determined. E3 (i.e. Ikom in 2016) was ranked as the ideal environment for ginger production in Cross River State. While G5 (UGI-5-04) was classified as the ideal genotype for rhizome yield in Calabar, Ikom and Ogoja. Ikom in 2016 (E3) and 2017 (E4) were identified as megaenvironments for UG1-13-02, UG1-5-04, UG1-5-18, UG1-5-35, UG1-5-38, UG2-11-03 and UG2-9-01 while Ogoja in 2016 (E5) and 2017 (E6) were identified as mega-environments for UG1-2-35, UG1-5-48, UG1-5-52 and UG1-7-24 ginger mutants. Ikom is recommended as a suitable environment for the cultivation of generally adapted ginger genotypes namely, UG1-5-04, UG1-5-38, UG1-13-02 and UG2-9-01). Ogoja was suitable for specific adaptation of UG1-7-24 and UG1-5-48 ginger mutants. These mutants are recommended for consideration in subsequent ginger breeding and improvement programmes. Contribution/ OriginalityThe research explored that the Ikom region has an ideal environment for the cultivation of ginger in Cross River State. Different varieties of ginger mutants were identified as ideal genotypes in other regions like Ogoja and Calabar.