GGE BIPLOT ANALYSIS FOR THE SELECTION OF STABLE CHICKPEA (CICER ARIETINUM L.) GENOTYPES UNDER DIFFERENT ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS OF PAKISTAN

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is reckoned as one of the most important pulse crops globally, valued for its high protein content. However, the productivity of chickpeas is often challenged by various biotic and abiotic stresses. Identifying and selecting stable genotypes is critical for addressing these issues and ensuring sustained chickpea yield. The GGE biplot analysis is a powerful tool for dissecting genotype-environment interactions and identifying stable genotypes across diverse environments. This present study was aimed to explore this tool for selecting stable chickpea genotypes by conducting field trials across multiple environments. Studied chickpea genotypes were tested at ten different locations in Pakistan. The experiments were carried out in a randomized complete block design using three repeats at each location. In the present study genotype by environment interaction effect was significant (P < 0.001) along with main effects of environment and genotype. GGE Biplot cumulatively explains 61.21 % of the total variation in the 1st year and 79.74 % in the 2nd year. Principal component 1 of the GGE Biplot contributed 35.62%, and 60.37% while principal component 2 contributed 25.59% and 19.37% to the total variation respectively in both years. Through GGE Biplot, G1(BRC-408), and G3 (15FCK16) were identified as highly stable and well-adapted genotypes that could be released as a variety for general cultivation throughout Pakistan in both years. For highly variegated environments or mega environments, specific genotypes that were well performed in these environments such as G2, (15KCC-112), G7(CH64/11), and G14(CH53/12) should be recommended.