Multi-environment stability and genotype × environment interaction analysis for grain yield and micronutrient (Fe and Zn) contents in mungbean (Vigna radiata L.)

Micronutrient malnutrition, particularly iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) deficiencies, is a major public health concern in developing countries. Mungbean (Vigna radiata L.), a protein- and micronutrient-rich legume, offers potential to alleviate these deficiencies while providing stable grain yield under diverse environmental conditions. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of genotypes, environmental factors, and genotype-environment interactions (GEI) on Fe and Zn concentrations and grain yield in 115 field-grown mungbean genotypes from major growing regions of India between 2021 and 2023. Genotypes were evaluated across 12 environments (4 locations × 3 years) using an augmented block design. Grain yield and seed Fe and Zn concentrations were measured, and GEI was analyzed using additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) models, along with AMMI stability value (ASV) and yield stability index (YSI). Grain yield ranged from 1137.92 to 1272.27 kg ha⁻¹, with environmental factors contributing 37.65% and GEI 45.32% of the total variation. GEI had a highly significant effect on grain yield (p < 0.001) but minimal impact on Fe and Zn concentrations. Heritability was high for Zn (0.83) and grain yield (0.70). Fe concentration ranged from 75.22 to 87.21 ppm, and was positively correlated with Zn (r = 0.503, p < 0.001). Six genotypes (G59, G78, G27, G25, G31, and G74) showed stable yields across environments, with four of them (G27, G25, G31, G78) combining high yield stability and elevated Fe content, and two (G27, G31) also exhibiting high Zn concentrations. This study identifies mungbean genotypes with both stable yield and enhanced micronutrient content, providing valuable candidates for biofortification and future breeding programs. The findings contribute to addressing hidden hunger while supporting sustainable crop production under variable environments.