Recommendation of cowpea genotypes based on adaptability, stability and grain darkening

Abstract

The cowpea is a legume that is widely grown in the north-east of Brazil, and which has been gaining ground in other regions of the country. The main producer is the state of Ceará, with a large planted-area, albeit low productivity due to a lack of producer technology and adapted cultivars. The aim of this study was to identify and recommend superior genotypes in terms of adaptability and stability under rainfed and irrigated conditions, in addition to genotypes with reduced grain darkening. To this end, six experiments were conducted in different districts of Ceará (Crato, Pentecoste, Crateús, Madalena, Bela Cruz and Limoeiro do Norte) and one laboratory experiment, to evaluate grain darkening. The experimental design of the field trials was of randomised blocks, with 14 genotypes and 4 replications. The analysis of variance showed a significant effect from the genotypes and environments and their interaction, so GGE Biplot analysis was carried out to evaluate adaptability and stability. To evaluate grain darkening, a completely randomised design was used in a simple factorial scheme with six previously selected genotypes and five different storage times (0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 months). There was a significant effect from the genotypes and storage time. Genotype 1 showed the least darkening, and can be recommended for environments to which it is best adapted (Crato and Crateús). Genotype 9 was considered the most stable for grain yield, and can be more broadly recommended for the semi-arid region of the state of Ceará.