Understanding tropical maize (Zea mays L.): the major monocot in modernization and sustainability of agriculture in sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

Maize is the second most important cereal crop in the world after wheat followed by rice. Although, it is among the latest entries in the list of food crops in Africa, maize has attracted much more attention in terms of research and adaptability. Consequently, maize has become the number 1 crop with significant contribution to modern farming and food security in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Majority of the population in the region depend on maize as their main source of calories, income and livelihood. Additionally, maize is of global importance as a model organism for advancement of genetic studies. However, maize production in the region is conditioned by complex factors leading to very low average yield compared to other parts of the world. General understanding of tropical maize is one of the key approaches required for improvement of tropical maize in SSA. Here an attempt was made to review various aspects of maize and major advances including the origin, taxonomy, genetics, morphology, physiology, cultural practices, yield potentials, breeding, and production constraints. The information generated could provide useful insights into tropical maize and might contribute towards enhancement of the crop for food security in SSA.