Application of multivariate analysis for assessment of stability in winter safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) genotypes under rainfed conditions

Assessment of genotype x environment interaction (GEI) is an important constituent of cultivar selection process in multi-environment traits (MET). A set of 15 genotypes of winter safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) were evaluated for grain yield, compatibility, yield stability and GEI in diverse environments under rainfed conditions. The analysis of variance conducted through AMMI method showed significant variation in grain yield with respect to mean squares of environments, genotypes, and GEI. The two main components, IPCA1 and IPCA2, accounted for 85.29% of the variation and GEI, indicating almost high biplot validity. The polygon biplot analysis identified six superior and stable genotypes and two mega-environments.