Unraveling genotype × environment interaction and stability patterns for climate-resilient durum wheat varieties

Exploring crop performance and response across diverse conditions has become increasingly strenuous due to the combined effects of Genotype x Environment interaction and climate change. This study sought to assess the grain yield performance of nine durum wheat varieties across 13 rainfed environments combining two locations (Kef and Beja) with six to seven cropping seasons each. AMMI and WAASB analyses revealed significant effects of genotypes, environments, and their interaction on grain yield, with the environment representing the major source of variation (92.08%). The AMMI biplot revealed a clear discrimination between the Beja and Kef environments, suggesting that location substantially influenced genotype × environment interaction (GEI) patterns across growing seasons. These results highlight the importance of considering location-specific responses when evaluating varietal adaptation. Across the evaluated network, INRAT100, Om Rabiaa, Dhahbi, and Salim were identified as the top-yielding varieties, while Razzak and Salim exhibited the highest stability. The varieties Om Rabiaa and Salim displayed a more favorable combination of yield performance and stability under Beja conditions, whereas Nasr and INRAT100 performed comparatively better under Kef conditions. Notably, Salim combined high yield performance combined by good stability, supporting its suitability under rainfed Tunisian conditions in the context of ongoing climate change. These findings contribute to a better understanding of varietal performance under contrasting environments and may support future varieties recommendation.