Genetic variability and correlation studies for yield and related characters in single cross hybrids of maize (Zea mays L.).

Abstract

Maize (Zea mays L.) is native to South America an important cereal crop belongs to the tribe Maydeae, of the grass family, Poaceae. The suitability of maize to diverse environments is unmatched by any crop as the expansion of maize to new areas and environment still continues, as it has a range of plasticity. With this knowledge, Ten experimental and five released maize genotypes were evaluated in RCBD with three replication during kharif 2007 at three diverse environments (Dharwad, Arabvhavi and Bheemarayanagudi) for eleven characters to asses the genetic variability and correlation analysis. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed highly significant differences between genotypes for all the characters studied. Moderate phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation coupled with high heritability and genetic advance were recorded for number of kernel rows per ear, cob girth, fodder yield per hectare, and grain yield per plant. The association of grain yield was found to be positive and significant for fodder yield under different environments.