Amrul Mubarok, Cindy Sahera, Yulfi Fandasari, Izmi Yulianah, Mochammad Roviq, Afifuddin Latif Adiredjo
Melon (Cucumis melo L.) production in the tropics is often affected by large genotype-environment interactions (G × E), resulting in erratic yield and quality. The objectives of the present study were to select elite hybrids using a combination of stability modeling and multi-trait analysis in three different agro-ecologies (Singosari, Lowokwaru, and Kucur) in East Java. Ten hybrids were investigated through AMMI, genotype-by-trait (GT) biplot, and Multi-Trait Stability Index (MTSI). Results showed that phenotypic variance was mainly determined by environment (76.19–94.52%), and G × E interaction had significant effects on all traits (P < 0.01). Regional climatic data for the three sub-districts were obtained from BMKG (Karangploso), Malang, and a composite Environmental Index was computed to rank the three sites independently of the agronomic data (Singosari EI = + 3.08, Kucur = − 0.18, Lowokwaru = − 2.90); the EI ranking matched the AMMI environment scores, consistent with an altitude-driven climatic basis for the observed G × E pattern. Based on AMMI analysis, G9 was found to be the most stable genotype for fruit length, and both lowland (G3) and mid-altitude adapted (G5) genotypes were identified. The GT biplot showed strong positive associations between fruit weight, diameter, and thickness, permitting more effective indirect selection. As a result, the MTSI pinpointed hybrids (G3, G5, and G8) on the basis of ideotype were superior to commercial checks for yield, with G5 in particular excelling in sweetness (TSS). Such an integrated selection framework appears to be a powerful tool in dealing with the complexities of G × E and is likely to help in developing high-yielding, climate-resilient melon cultivars for tropical production. © The Author(s) under exclusive licence to Society for Plant Research 2026.
Plant Breeding Laboratory, Department of Agriculture Science, Faculty of Bio-industry, Agriculture and Forestry, Brawijaya University, East Java, Malang, 65145, Indonesia; Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Bio-industry, Agriculture and Forestry, Brawijaya University, East Java, Malang, 65145, Indonesia; Plant Physiology Laboratory, Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Bio-industry, Agriculture and Forestry, Brawijaya University, East Java, Malang, 65145, Indonesia
