Genetic variability for yield and yield attributing traits in maize (Zea mays. L)

Abstract

The present study aims to reveal the existence of genetic variability and importance of some quantitative traits in the 50 maize genotypes. The objectives were to assess the variability, heritability and genetic advance values were computed on 10 characters. Highly significant mean sum of squares due to genotypes and wide range of variability were noticed among the genotypes for all the characters except number of kernels per row. Phenotypic coefficient of variation was higher than the corresponding genotypic coefficient of variation for all the characters studied. High to moderate estimates of PCV and GCV were recorded for grain yield, ear height, ear length, number of kernel row per ear and 100 kernel weight suggesting sufficient variability thus offers scope for genetic improvement through selection. High estimates of heritability were observed for number of kernel rows per ear and days to 50 per cent flowering. High to moderate heritability with moderate estimates of genetic advance recorded for grain yield and ear height, where careful selection may lead towards improvement for these traits. Hence, provides better opportunities for selecting plant material for these traits in maize.