Adaptability and stability of alfalfa cultivars

Yield adaptability and stability of thirty five alfalfa genotypes (Medicago sativa L.) were evaluated at Sert (a) over tilde ozinho, SP, Brazil, considering different environments (seasons of year) from 1996 to 1999. A randomized complete block design with three replications was used. Scott-Knott's test was performed to compare genotypes averages. Adaptability and stability were determined by Eberhart and Russell's procedures. Two diverse groups of genotypes with mean dry matter yield were identified: Araucana, F686, MH4 e BR2 were more responsive under favorable environments, but SW 8210, Alto, Monarca SP, Victoria SP, Florida 77, P5888, MH15, BR1, BR3, SW 9210A presented broad adaptability and high predictive stability for diverse environments. It was concluded that several studied genotypes compared to cv. 'Crioula', which is traditionally used in Brazil, and these genotypes can be grown in these environments, showing high yielding and broad adaptability associated to phenotypic stability.