Abstract

Combining ability analysis was conducted using line x tester design in maize inbred lines for yield and yield contributing traits. The sca variance was observed to be more important for all the traits studied. The inbreds DMR-201, CM-119 and CM-121 were good general combiners for grain yield per plant and most of their yield contributing traits. The cross CM-121 x DMR- 201 showed high sca effects and heterosis for grain yield and early maturity and thus, can be tested over the locations for assessing its consistent performance over the wide range of environments. Other crosses viz., CM-119 x DMR-40E, CM-104 x AML-420 and CM-119 x DMR- 201 also showed high heterosis and sca effects for grain yield.

Keywords: Line x tester, Combining ability, Heterosis, Maize, Polygenic traits.