Stability analysis for yield-associated traits in desi cotton (Gossypium arboreum) genotypes

Cotton, an essential fibrous cash crop, holds significant economic importance globally,
especially in India, where it occupies a substantial area of cultivation. Among the four cultivated
species, Gossypium arboreum is particularly valued for its resilience, drought tolerance, and
resistance to insect pests, making it crucial for low-cost cultivation in marginal conditions. A
major challenge in cotton breeding programme is the complexity of GEI, which makes
identifying stable, high-yielding genotypes difficult. Therefore, this study investigates genotype-
environment interactions (GEI) for yield-related traits in 30 diverse G. arboreum genotypes
under two different two locations over two growing seasons. Statistical analysis indicated
significant differences among genotypes for various yield-associated traits. High heritability and
genetic advance as % mean were observed for seed cotton yield (84.30%, 27.94%), lint yield
(82.70%, 27.40%), and bolls per plant (86.40%, 26.41%), indicating strong potential for effective
selection. Stability analysis revealed trait-specific and genotype-specific adaptability. For lint
yield, regression coefficient ranged from -16.28 to 21.19, with genotype HD 537 showing
suitability to favorable environments, while HD 509 demonstrated adaptation to unfavorable
conditions. For seed cotton yield, HD 509 exhibited above-average performance with unit
regression, indicating broad adaptability, while genotypes HD 514, HD 536, and HD 544 showed
high mean values and adaptation to unfavorable environments. These findings highlight the
importance of selecting genotypes based on environmental adaptability to enhance yield in G.
arboreum.