Genotype x environment interaction for grain yield of some lentil genotypes and relationship among univariate stability statistics

Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) is traditionally grown as a rain fed crop, particularly in the Middle East: its seed is a rich source of protein for human consumption ill developing countries such as Iran and others. The stability of 11 different lentil genotypes was Investigated using 19 univariate stability parameters. Field experiments were conducted in 20 rain-fed environments in Iran's lentil producing areas to characterize genotype by environment (GE) interactions on seed yield of 11 lentil genotypes. Combined analysis of variance across environments indicated that both environment and GE interactions significantly influenced genotype yield. Several statistical methods and techniques were used to describe the GE interaction and to define stable genotypes in relation to their yield. The results of these different stability methods were variable. However, most showed genotype FLIP 92-12L was stable and genotype Gachsaran was unstable. Genotypes identified as superior differed significantly from local cultivars and can be recommended for use by farmers in semi-arid areas of Iran. Principal component analysis was used to obtain an understanding of relationships among stability techniques. It showed the parameters studied could be grouped in five distinct classes. Clustering of the genotypes indicated that there were two genotypic groups in this group of genotypes.