Physiological basis of maize growth and productivity–A review†

Abstract

In recent years, major research activities have been directed on the physiological basis of maize growth and productivity. With respect to vegetative growth, researches have been undertaken on leaf development, distribution of oxygen in roots, growth analysis and factors influencing these activities. Besides, several modelling approaches have been undertaken for the prediction of grain yield. With respect to reproductive growth, major attentions have been given on the development of floral meristem, the effect of silk age on fertilisation and pollination. Some studies have been undertaken on transpiration, photosynthesis, oxidative stress, phototropism, tocopherol, water management, drought stress, salinity tolerance, cold tolerance and mineral nutritions. Very few studies have been undertaken for the selection of the genotypes resistant to these stress factors. Among these, a great emphasis has been given on photosynthesis. All these phenomena are directly or indirectly related with maize productivity. There is a great necessity to formulate adequate strategies for managing the crop under adverse agro-climatic conditions and the selection of crop cultivars for adaptation under these adverse situations.