Unravelling the accessions–environment interactions and the unveiling of released variety: insights from Bouffordia dichotoma

Abstract

A comprehensive study was conducted on Bouffordia dichotoma, a valued forage plant in eastern Amhara, Ethiopia, to identify the most productive accession. This two-year study (2021–2022) was carried out in three locations using a randomised complete block design with four replications. Results showed that location significantly influenced parameters including dry matter yield, days to 50% flowering, plant height, leaf-to-stem ratio, seed yield, thousand seed weight and various nutritional components. The year effect significantly impacted seed yield, thousand seed weight and percentages of CP, ADF, NDF, ADL, IVDMD and IVOMD. The interaction between accessions and locations was also significant for several parameters. Bouffordia dichotoma 37708 emerged as the top performer, consistently displaying superior forage yield (11.45 tons per hectare) and impressive nutritional quality (20.23% crude protein). Consequently, this accession was officially released as a new forage variety in Ethiopia in 2024. Further research is needed to investigate the effects of B. dichotoma 37708 on ruminant performance, its compatibility with sorghum/ maize crops and grass species, its potential for nitrogen fixation and soil health improvement, and pest management strategies. These investigations will provide valuable insights into the potential benefits and applications of this outstanding variety in agriculture.