Genetic stability and genotype × environment interaction analysis for seed protein content and protein yield of lentil.

Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) seeds are an excellent source of staple dietary protein that can be a viable plant‐based alternative protein source to food processing industries. Understanding of the basis of genotype × environment (G × E) interaction is fundamental knowledge for plant breeding. We explored genetic stability and G × E for seed protein content and protein yield for 34 lentil genotypes using AMMI (additive main effects and multiplicative interaction) and SREG (site regression) models. Genotypes were evaluated under field conditions in five locations at western Canada during 2017–2018. Protein content and protein yield were 21.6–26.9% of seed dry weight and 156.8–1113.0 kg ha−1, respectively, across 10 environments. Environment and G × E had fewer effects on protein content than protein yield. Higher seed protein content was observed in the extra‐small red market class. Based on both models, genotypes IBC 1235, 3923‐9, 3674‐17, IBC 929R, and 4371‐4 with stable protein productivity would be useful genetic resources for the development of protein‐rich varieties in lentil breeding programs. Our results suggest genetic improvement of protein and protein yield together is possible for lentil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]