Genetic variability, heritability and association analysis of morphological and yield components in maize hybrids

Abstract

The present investigation was conducted to evaluate the various parameters like genetic variability, nature and magnitude of association and also the direct and indirect effects of different morphological and yield traits on kernel yield in 13 different new maize hybrids at Research farm, ANGRAU-Agricultural Research station, Vijayarai (A.P.) during rabi season of 2019-20. The Analysis of variance revealed that highly significant differences exist among the maize hybrids for all the traits studied except for initial plant stand and final plant stand. It emphasize that the studied experimental material possesses sufficient variability for all the morphological and yield traits which can be beneficial for selection in different breeding programmes. High GCV and PCV values were obtained for kernel yield per plant (kg), kernel yield (kg ha-1), plant height (cm), ear placement height (cm), number of kernels per cob, cob yield per plot (kg) and test weight (g). High heritability estimates coupled with genetic advance as percentage of mean was recorded for plant height, ear placement height, days to 50% pollen shed and test weight. Similarly, the traits kernel yield per plot, cob yield per plot, ear placement height, plant height and shelling percentage established. Highest significant positive association with kernel yield (kg ha-1) and the trait kernel yield per plot also showed highest positive direct effects indicating that these traits are more effective and these traits directly and or indirectly will contribute for achieving higher kernel yields and selection based on these traits would be more effective in hybrid maize breeding programmes