Evaluation of Phenotypic and Ecological Variability of Vegetable Soybean Accessions by a Complex of Agronomically Valuable Traits

Abstract

Purpose. The aim of the article is to highlight the phenotypic and ecological variability of vegetable soybean samples in order to form scientifically substantiated source material for breeding new varieties adaptive to irrigation conditions. Research methods: field, laboratory, statistical. Research results. Over three years, the phenotypic and ecological variability of the following vegetable soybean samples was evaluated in the collection nursery: Kobra, standard, Fiskeby V, Karikachi, Fora, Vesta, 20/25, Sac, L 361-1-13, L 362-2-13, L 364-2-13, L 368-3-13, L 380-2-13. The highest average plant height was formed by Karikachi (70.4 cm) and Fora (66.6 cm); the height of the lower bean attachment varied from 3.3 cm (Kobra) to 6.9 cm (Fora). Early ripening varieties (Karikachi, Kobra, Sac, L 361-1- 13, Fora) were characterized by low variability (2.9–6.2%), while L 368-3-13 had medium (13.3%). In terms of plant height, most samples had high V values (33.1–43.4%), while Kobra, Fora, Vesta and Sac had medium (12.6–24.1%). The greatest variability was observed in Fiskeby V and L 364-2-13 (57–79%). Conclusions. Early ripening varieties (Karikachi, Kobra, Sac, L 361-1-13, Fora and others) with a growing season of 80–90 days are characterized by a low coefficient of variation (2.9–6.2%), which indicates their high ecological stability. The variety L 368-3-13 (98 days) has an average variability (V = 13.3%), which indicates a moderate dependence on weather conditions. In terms of plant height, most varieties recorded high values of V (33.1–43.4%), which indicates their sensitivity to hydrothermal conditions, while Kobra (standard), Fora, Vesta and Sac are characterized by average variability (12.6–24.1%). The highest variability (57–79%) of the height of the lower bean attachment was found in Fiskeby V and L 364-2-13; Fora variety is characterized by relative stability (V = 21%). Stable varieties are appropriate for production use, and highly variable ones are used as sources of plasticity and adaptability in breeding programs.