Agronomic Performance Evaluation and Yield Stability Analysis using GGE-biplot among Advanced Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) Hybrids in Moisture Stress Areas of Ethiopia

The development of genotypes with high yield and acceptable grain quality is the primary way for sorghum production. However, drought is the major climatic factor that hinders yield and yield component traits severely. Therefore, this study aimed to identify drought-tolerant sorghum hybrids for yield and their components in drought-prone areas. The field experiment was conducted on twenty-four advanced drought-tolerant sorghum hybrids in three major sorghum growing areas of Ethiopia. The experimental materials were evaluated in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications under rain-fed conditions in the 2021 main growing season. The analysis of variance revealed a highly significant difference among tested hybrids for grain yield in locations Mieso and Melkassa. And also had considerable differences in the Location of Kobo. Hence, Hybrid K7200 (6.06 ton/ha) at Mieso, K7148 (5.46 ton/ha) at Kobo, and K7410 (6.69 ton /ha) at Melkassa had the highest grain yield. The combined ANOVA also showed a significant difference (P < 0.01) among hybrids, locations, and their interaction for most of the traits. Among the tested hybrids, K7410 (5.48 ton/ha), K7148 (5.18 ton/ha), standard check variety Melkam (4.95 ton/ha), K6090 (4.86 ton/ha), and K19020 (4.74 ton/ha) were selected for maximum grain yield over locations. GGE biplot analysis revealed that hybrids K7148, K7410, and variety Melkam in Kobo, hybrid K6090 in Melkassa, and K19021, K19026, and K19012 gave the maximum grain yield in Mieso. Among the tested hybrids K7148 and K6100 were stable and high yielders across locations. These hybrids can be recommended for moisture-stress areas of Ethiopia.