Genotype by environment (G x E) interactions of sweet corn hybrids

Abstract

Genotypes-by-environment (G×E) interactions are a major challenge in sweet corn breeding, particularly when developing cultivars that are adaptable to diverse agro-ecological zones. This study aimed to evaluate the interaction of sweet corn genotypes across environments in lowland (Gowa and Maros, South Sulawesi) and highland (Tondano and Tomohon, North Sulawesi) areas during the dry and wet seasons. Three candidate sweet corn hybrids and two check varieties were used in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Agronomic traits were recorded and analyzed using a combined analysis of variance. The results showed that environment (location and season) significantly influenced most agronomic characters, and strong G×E interactions were detected, particularly for ear yield, kernel sweetness (Brix), and ear size. The two candidate varieties, namely SSMA01 and SSMA02, also showed harvest and some agronomic characteristics that were significantly superior compared to the two check varieties used. The significant genotype × environment interaction indicates differential responses of sweet corn hybrids across lowland and highland environments. This information indicates the importance of multi-environment testing to identify promising genotypes with broad adaptability and to support the development of high-productivity sweet corn varieties in Indonesia.