Yield and stability for agronomic and seed quality traits of common bean genotypes under Mediterranean conditions.

Common bean is the most significant pulse in Mediterranean countries and high yield performance is required to become commercially successful. Seven common bean genotypes were evaluated for yield and stability along with their interrelationship with agronomical, physicochemical and quality characteristics. An analysis of variance was conducted to test main effects and interactions between plant traits and environments. Significant variation among genotypes occurred for seed yield and a strong positive correlation was observed between seed yield and pods m-2. High Genetic Coefficient of Variation (GCV) values combined with high heritability for traits as seed yield, cooking time, hydration capacity and protein content were recorded. The GGE biplot analysis indicated two cultivars as superior genotypes that combine high yield, stability, short cooking time and high protein content. Furthermore, a local population assessed as promising genetic material for the selection of elite lines with high yield and short cooking time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]