AMMI and GGE biplot analysis of genotype by environment interaction and yield stability in early maturing cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L) Walp] landraces in Ethiopia

Cowpea is one of the most important grain legumes for human consumption and animal feeding. Despite this importance, its production is hampered by biotic and abiotic constraints. Genotype by environment interaction study was performed to identify the most stable cowpea genotype(s) and the desirable environment(s) for cowpea research in Ethiopia. Twenty‐four cowpea landraces and one standard check were evaluated for grain yield and yield‐related traits at six locations (Sekota, Kobo, Sirinka, Melkassa, Mieso, and Babile) using 5 × 5 triple lattice during 2019. Combined analysis of variance showed that grain yield was significantly affected by environments, genotypes, and GE interactions. AMMI analysis revealed the contribution of environment, genotype, and GEI for 29.79%, 15.6%, and 42.06% of variation on grain yield. The first two principal components explained 57.97% of the total GEI variance. AMMI model selected G24 as 1st and 2nd best genotype at five environments. The polygon view of the GGE biplot identified three mega‐environments (ME1, ME2, and ME3) with winning genotypes: G24, G3, and G16, respectively. The highest productive (2528.8 kg ha(−1)) environment, miesso has been identified as the most; discriminating and representative testing environment whereas the lowest productive (1676.1 kg ha(−1)) Sirinka was the least discriminating and representative. The highest yielder G24 (2632 kg ha(−1)) was identified as the “ideal” and the most stable genotype followed by G16 (2290 kg ha(−1)) while the least stable and low yielder was G11. Therefore, genotypes G24 and G16 were recommended for verification and commercial production in most cowpea growing areas of Ethiopia.