Assessment of Farmers’ Quality Preference and Agronomic Performance of Improved Tef (Eragrostis tef [Zucc.] Trotter) Varieties in the Two Districts of Central Ethiopia With Predominantly Acidic Soils

Abstract

Tef is a gluten-free cereal grain that provides a rich source of unsaturated fatty acids, high in fiber and minerals, especially iron and calcium. Tef is becoming a popular health food worldwide due to its consumption, which can help manage celiac disease and possibly prevent and control iron deficiency and diabetes. The study’s objective was to verify the best-performing tef varieties in different environments using a multivariate analysis. The trial was arranged in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) replicated three times in three environments using 12 improved tef varieties. The results of analysis of variance (ANOVA) and multivariate analysis indicated that grain yield and other agronomic traits differed significantly (p<0.001) among the tef varieties. The additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) ANOVA showed that the grain yield was attributed to the genotypes (G) (27.44%), environments (E) (59.84%), and genotype-by-environment interaction (GEI) (12.72%) of the total variation. The result also showed that grain yield was influenced by interactions between variety and environment. Accordingly, Negus and Dagem varieties performed best at Goro, while Washera and Ebba varieties were yielded high at Wolkite, and whereas, Mena variety was best at Emedeber, showing location specific adaptability. Most stability procedures are recommended with the varieties Washera, Negus, and Ebba for high grain yield and wider adaptability. In summary, Washera and Negus varieties were the top performing tef varieties across all testing locations, while Felagot had the lowest yield. Tef production can be enhanced by growing these identified varieties in their suitable production areas. With further demonstrations, these varieties can be used for scaled up for large scale cultivation to improve yield and support food security.