Comparative Study on Impact of Mating Systems on Character Associations in Single Crosses of Maize (Zea mays L.)

Abstract

Although global maize breeding programmes are in momentum with high number of superior hybrids releasing annually, the full potential of hybrids is seldom achieved in real time due to various biotic and abiotic stresses. It is pertinent to broaden the diversity of available germplasm to suit to the needs of present changing climatic conditions. In this study, six segregating populations of two maize single crosses developed by imposing three types of matings (self, sib and random mating) were evaluated to assess their potential in future breeding programmes. Trait association studies were conducted in these populations to estimate the success rate of selections, time required to develop superior inbreds and assist in parental choice for hybrid development programmes. Results indicated that sib mating was the most effective among the three mating systems, as its progeny showed highest number of significant positive correlations among the yield and its related traits. Selfed progenies exhibited lesser number or weak positive correlations while random mating largely resulted in negative and weak positive correlations.