La production de la semence céréalière hybride : cas de l’orge (Hordeum vulgare L.)

Abstract

In a context marked by the need to strengthen seed security and enhance crops adapted to semi-arid zones, this work is part of a genetic improvement perspective for barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) through hybridization. The study focused on the agronomic evaluation of 23 hybrid genotypes from the F5 generation, resulting from diallel crosses between nine varieties (local and introduced), compared to two local controls (Saida and Tichedrett). The experiment was conducted over six agricultural campaigns at the Khelafa Ahmed Pilot Farm (Tiberguent - Mila), using a randomized complete block design. Eight key parameters were measured, including plant height, number of grains per spike, thousand-grain weight, and plant productivity. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences between genotypes, with the expression of a favorable genotypic effect on several traits in certain hybrids, particularly productivity. 17 out of 23 hybrids expressed productivity exceeding the average values recorded in the controls (H1, H2, H3, H5, H6, H8, H9, H11, H13, H14, H15, H17, H18, H19, H20, H22, H23). The highest productivity was achieved by hybrid H22 with (111 g). Furthermore, the study highlights socioeconomic constraints hindering the adoption of hybrid barley, notably the imbalance in subsidy policies favoring wheat, despite similar input costs. These results underscore the potential of F5 hybrids as a lever for innovation in varietal selection programs, and call for an integrated strategy combining research, technical support, and incentives for seed producers.