Genetic exploration of variability and environmental influence on yield, components, and nutritional properties among groundnut germplasm originated from different countries for identification of potential stable donors

The study aimed to analyze a varied collection of 371 germplasm obtained from various countries, with regards to yield-related characteristics, oil, protein, sugar, free amino acids, and total phenolics, in two distinct environments. The purpose was to assess the extent of genotypic diversity and the potential for improving productivity and quality through breeding. The study identified germplasm that exhibited superior and stable performance with two or more desirable traits. Specifically, NRCGs 10366, 10480, 10485, and 10844 were superior in terms of pod yield (PY), hundred kernel weight (HKW), and shelling percentage (SHP). NRCG-11390 was superior for pod yield (PY), protein content, and sugar content. Additionally, NRCGs 12469, 14089, and 16492 were superior for important biochemical traits such as oil, protein, and sugar content. NRCG 11101 was superior for HKW, protein content, and oil content, while NRCGs 11154 and 11164 were superior for HKW, protein content, and sugar content. The study has identified germplasm with a grain protein content exceeding 34% and an oil content ranging from 47 to 48%. Germplasm exhibiting specific traits were identified for their potential utilization as donors in the groundnut improvement program. The Spanish collection presents a potential source of valuable breeding traits for enhancing groundnut productivity and improving the content of oil, protein, sugar, phenol, and FAA, in various combinations.