Combining ability and heterosis study for grain yield and yield attributing traits in maize (Zea mays L.)

Abstract

An investigation was carried out to estimate combining ability and heterosis in maize (Zea Mays L.) at MaizeResearch Centre and Seed Farm, Devihosur during 2020-21. Combining ability analysis using line × tester design wasconducted among inbred lines by crossing 20 lines with three testers. Significant general and specific combining abilityvariances were observed for all the characters studied. The significant estimates of GCA and SCA variances suggested theimportance of both additive and non-additive gene actions for the expression studied traits. The lines viz., DMIL 211,DMIL 212 and DMIL 168 and tester DMIL 031 were identified as best general combiners for grain yield. Heterosisestimation was carried out using three commercial checks GPMH 1101, 900 MG and NK 6240. Among sixty crosses,DMIL 212 × DMIL 031, DMIL 117 × DMIL 021, DMIL 145 × DMIL 031, DMIL 151 × DMIL 021 and DMIL168 × DMIL 031 exhibited highest significant SCA effects and high heterosis over checks for grain yield. These hybridsneed to be further evaluated across locations and over seasons to select best hybrids for commercial exploitation