Evaluation of Grain Size Stability in CIMMYT Spring Wheat Germplasm and Its Breeding Potential in the Qinghai Plateau
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Abstract
Background: Introducing CIMMYT spring wheat germplasm is crucial for improving grain yield and stability in the Qinghai Plateau. This study evaluated the performance and adaptability of exotic genotypes to provide elite genetic resources for local breeding programs. Methods: Fifteen CIMMYT spring wheat accessions and the local check variety Gaoyuan 932 were evaluated across six environments during 2023–2024. Thousand-gainl weight (TGW), Gain length (GL), width (GW), and thickness (GT) were measured. Genotype (G), environment (E), and their interaction (G×E) were analyzed using AMMI model and GGE biplot. Results: E, G, and G×E effects were highly significant (P < 0.001) for all traits. GW was most environment-sensitive (F = 1707.50), TGW showed the strongest genotypic effect (F = 762.05), and GL was most influenced by G×E. The first three AMMI components explained >87% of variation. E2 was the ideal environment with highest trait means and strong discrimination. G5 exhibited highest TGW (58.52 g) and GW (3.62 mm); G16 had superior GL (7.40 mm) and GT (3.42 mm); G10 showed outstanding stability. G16 adapted best to E2 and E6, while G5 performed optimally across E3–E6. Conclusion: G16 is a well-adapted genotype with comprehensive superiority. G5, G9, G10, and G2 possess complementary advantages for breeding. G16, G5, and G9 are promising parents, whereas G10 and G2 are suitable for direct promotion with environment-specific deployment.
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