Unraveling stability in rice genotypes for resistance against leaffolder (Cnaphalocrocis medinalis) under varied environmental conditions

Abstract

Rice, serving as a crucial staple food for more than half of the global population, confronts significant challenges from insect pests, particularly the rice leaf folder (Cnaphalocrocis medinalis), which leads to substantial yield losses. This study meticulously evaluates 94 rice landraces for leaffolder resistance under diverse environmental conditions usisng genotype × environment (G × E) interaction analysis. The additive main effects and multiplicative interaction model and genotype and genotype × environment interaction (GGE) biplot are employed to assess stability and resistance traits. The findings reveal that 44 genotypes demonstrate stable resistance across three test environments (Kharif, 2021, Rabi, 2021–2022 and Kharif, 2022). Resistance is primarily governed by genotypic factors (89.93%), with minimal influence from the environment (5.22%). The GGE biplot highlights distinct mega-environments, identifying Kharif, 2021, followed by Kharif, 2022, as the ideal test environments. This study identifies specific stable resistant genotypes that could prove valuable for sustainable pest management and contribute to further crop improvement programs.