Appraisal of Genetic Variability and Seasonal Interaction for Yield and Quality Traits in Maize (<i>Zea mays</i> L.)

Abstract

Knowledge of the genetic components of variances and inter-relationships between yield and its quality traits will improve the efficiency of breeding programmes through the use of appropriate selection indices, taking into consideration for ten inbreds of maize obtained from All India Co-ordinated Maize Improvement Project. Ten inbreds were evaluated in a Randomized Block Design with three replications. Highest PCV and GCV were observed for oil content preceded by days to 50% tasseling and days to 50% silking. High heritability were observed for days to 50% tasseling, days to 50% silking, protein content, starch content and number of kernels row -1 . High heritability with high genetic advance were observed for days to 50% tasseling and days to 50% silking which indicated that most likely the heritability was due to the influence of additive genes and selection may be effective for such traits. Highest significant and positive correlation were found between days to 50% tasseling and days to 50% silking followed by association of ear height and plant height; number of kernels row -1 and ear length; ear diameter and ear length. Significant and negative association were found between ear height and days to 50% tasseling; ear height and days to 50% silking; starch content and oil content. Oil content was recorded maximum positive direct effect on yield. Direct effect of ear length, ear diameter, 100 kernel weight, oil content and starch content on yield was positive and high.