Evaluating Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) Genotypes for Fiber Quality Traits over Selected Agro-ecologies of Ethiopia.

Background: Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) is one of the most important fiber crops in the world. However, the quality of cotton fiber is a major determinant of its productivity since it regulates spin ability of the fiber into yarn, which contributes to the performance of the textile. Thus, the development of varieties possessing enhanced cotton fiber quality is essential for sustaining long-term cotton production in any region and can build greater marketability and fetch higher prices. Objective: The research was conducted to test the performance of cotton genotypes for fiber quality traits in different cotton growing agro-ecologies in Ethiopia. Material and Methods: Eleven cotton genotypes and three check varieties were tested at Werer, Sille and Weyto districts in a randomized complete block design with three replications from 2011 to 2013 cropping seasons. Results: The genotypes manifested significant (P = 0.01) differences in fiber fineness, fiber length, and fiber strength. Desirable micronaire and fiber length were obtained from the genotypes Indam 206 F5#6-1-1 and Polaris F5#3-2-2 at all locations. However, the values of fiber length of these genotypes at Werer were 32.49 mm and 32.75 mm, respectively, which were found to be lower than that of the best performing check varieties, which was 36.54 mm. Conclusion: It is concluded that genotypes Polaris F5#3-2-2 and Indam 206 F5#6-1-1 had superior mean performances in terms of fiber fineness, fiber length, and fiber strength. Therefore, these genotypes can be identified as potential candidates for to release for wider adaptation and commercial production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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