Heatmap clustering and performance analysis of cotton genotypes in response to environmental conditions

Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) is a crucial cash crop in China, with yield performance influenced by genotype, environmental conditions, and management practices. The aim of this study was to assess the yield performance, biomass accumulation, and growth of nine cotton genotypes in Henan Province during three growing seasons (2017-2019) with different climates. Field experiments were conducted using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) at the Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Anyang, China. Plant height, true leaf number, and boll number per plant were among the morphological characteristics that showed the most variance across years and genotypes. Reproductive biomass, leaf area index (LAI), and biomass accumulation followed distinct seasonal trends, with LAI rising during boll formation and flowering. Yield parameters such as seed cotton yield, lint percentage, and boll weight vary by genotype and year, with the highest yields recorded in 2019. According to correlation study, temperature and precipitation had a negative impact on seed cotton production and final biomass, whereas climatic parameters had a favorable correlation with the harvest index. The genotypes were divided into distinct categories according to growth and yield characteristics using heatmap clustering. These findings provide insight into the best cotton genotypes for increased productivity and resilience in a variety of climates, allowing breeders and farmers to make more informed cultivar selections.