Effects of environmental factors on kernel weight in five Algerian durum wheat populations (Triticum durum Desf.)

This study analyses the thousand kernel weight (TKW) component of grain yield in five local Algerian populations of durum wheat in the Setif area, taking into account the geographic location, the climatic conditions, and eight morphological traits related to plant development and car yield. The data analysed cover two years (1994 and 1995) and two contrasting locations. The multivariate analysis of variance (Manova) and the general linear model (GLM) are used to show the relationship existing between the TKW and the set of factors-variables considered. This approach aims at highlighting some of the genotype x environment interaction aspects in populations in a Mediterranean area. Each method demonstrates the influence of morphological traits on yield (TKW) and the variability specific to the location and year for each population.