Integrating Multi-Environment Trials and Physiological Trait Analysis for Climate-Resilient Crop Breeding
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61978/sativa.v1i2.1425Keywords:
Climate Resilience, Multi-Environment Trials, Genotype-By-Environment Interaction, Stay-Green, Canopy Temperature, Drought Tolerance, Yield StabilityAbstract
Climate change continues to threaten agricultural sustainability by intensifying drought and heat stresses. This study investigates the performance of three crop genotypes (G01, G02, G03) across diverse environmental conditions normal, drought, and heat using multi-environment field trials (METs). The objective is to identify genotypes with stable yields and adaptive physiological traits for resilience breeding. Field experiments were conducted in two locations over two growing seasons. Traits assessed included grain yield, days to flowering, canopy temperature, stay-green score, and disease severity index. Statistical analyses, including ANOVA, AMMI, and GGE biplot, were applied to evaluate genotype-by-environment (GxE) interactions. Physiological measurements were standardized using UAV and sensor-based phenotyping tools. Results show that genotype G02 consistently outperformed others under drought and normal conditions, maintaining high yield, lower canopy temperatures, and superior stay-green scores. Disease assessments further confirmed its resilience. GxE analysis revealed significant differences among genotypes, reinforcing the importance of location-specific adaptation. Trait correlations, especially among physiological indicators, supported the use of multi-trait selection strategies. This study demonstrates that integrating physiological and agronomic data through METs is vital for identifying climate-resilient genotypes. The combination of stay-green traits and canopy temperature provides a reliable screening framework for drought and heat tolerance. Findings contribute to enhanced breeding practices that support food security under changing climatic conditions.
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