Determination of fruit traits and yield values of some promising winter squash (Cucurbita maxima Duch.) variety candidates with stability analysis

Genotype x environment interactions are important in plant breeding studies. The variances of the genotype x environment interactions must be statistically significant to evaluate the stability analysis. This study was conducted in Samsun ecological conditions at three different locations (Bafra, Salıpazarı and Tekkeköy) in order to determine the adaptation abilities and stability values of the winter squash variety candidates developed with the pedigree selection method. In the research; 57Sİ21, 55ÇA15 and 55BA03 variety candidates and Arican 97 variety were used. The obtained data were analysed by using SAS statistical analysis program. Regression coefficient (b), mean square of deviation from regression (Sd²) and coefficient of determination (r²) were used to determine the stability capabilities of variety candidates for fruit flesh thickness and mean fruit weight traits, which were determined to be important for genotype x location interaction. In terms of average fruit weight, the Arican 97 variety was well adapted to favourable environmental conditions and the 55BA03 winter squash genotype was found to be better in adverse environmental conditions. It was determined that the 57Sİ21 genotype with the highest stability value in terms of fruit flesh firmness is well adapted to all environmental conditions. 55ÇA15, 55BA03 genotypes and Arican 97 variety were found to have low stability values in terms of fruit flesh firmness. Otherwise, it was determined that the genotype x location interaction of the winter squash variety candidates was not significant and was stable. The registration application of these promising winter squash will be done at the end of this study. Thus, it will be possible to gain new winter squash varieties for agriculture production of Turkey.