Identification of the most desirable maize testing environments in northern Serbia

Abstract

One of the final stages in the process of maize breeding is testing the potential hybrids in pre-registration multi-location trials. The aim of this study was to evaluate six locations (Pančevo, Sremska Mitrovica, Ruma, Srbobran, Rimski Šančevi and Sombor) in the northern Serbia for testing yields of maize seed hybrid by GGE (Genotype and Genotype by Environment Interaction) biplot method in the period from 2007 to 2011. This study comprised 24 maize hybrids tested across 6 environments. Different sets of hybrid were used every year. Hybrids served as 'a random' factor for the evaluation of locations. The ANOVA indicated significant effects of genotypes (G) and environments (E) every year, while their interaction (GE) was significant in 2007, 2009 and 2011. On average, the SO location provided the smallest amount of information and therefore can be excluded from further trials and analysis. The sites SM and RU were the most similar locations and only one of these two locations should be included in further trials. The location RŠ presented the smallest repeatability. For analysis that is more detailed it is necessary to include more locations in trials and analysis.

Keywords

• analysis
• environment
• GE interactivity
• grain yield
• hybrids
• maize
• Zea mays L.