STABILITY OF CHILLI (CAPSICUM ANNUUM L.) HYBRIDS ACROSS ENVIRONMENTS USING EBERHART-RUSSELL AND AMMI MODELS

Abstract

Genotype x environment (G x E) interaction limits reliable selection of high-yielding chilli hybrids across contrasting production zones. This study evaluated yield stability, environmental responsiveness and field tolerance to anthracnose in 13 parents, 30 F1 hybrids and three commercial checks across Rajendranagar, Warangal and Adilabad, Telangana, India. The material was generated through a Line x Tester mating design and evaluated in randomized block designs with three replications. Stability was assessed using the Eberhart-Russell regression model and the Additive Main Effects and Multiplicative Interaction (AMMI) model. Pooled analysis of variance detected highly significant genotype, environment and G x E effects for major yield traits. Environmental indices classified Rajendranagar as favourable (Ij = +44.26), Warangal as intermediate (Ij = 0.00) and Adilabad as stressful (Ij = -44.26). A highly significant pooled deviation for fresh fruit yield (363.070) indicated an important non-linear interaction component. AMMI analysis partitioned the interaction into IPCA 1 (70.8%) and IPCA 2 (29.2%). Cross 4 (L2 x T1) combined high mean yield (411.70 g plant-1), a regression coefficient near unity (bi = 1.02) and an IPCA 1 score near zero (+0.04), indicating broad stability. Cross 12 (L4 x T3; bi = 1.48) showed adaptation to favourable high-input conditions, whereas Cross 18 (L6 x T3; bi = 0.52) showed adaptation to the stress-prone environment. Natural field screening also identified resistant parental sources to anthracnose. The combined regression-AMMI approach therefore provides breeders with complementary criteria for identifying broadly adapted and environment-specific chilli hybrids for further multi-season and multi-location validation in Telangana.