Estimation of heterosis for kernel yield and its attributing traits in maize (Zea mays L.)

Abstract

The present study was undertaken to estimate the magnitude of heterosis of forty-five hybrids derived from fourteen parents (9 line and 5 tester) of maize through line × tester mating design. These hybrids were evaluated for kernel yield and its component characters to study the heterosis over better parent and standard check. The analysis revealed that the heterobeltiosis for kernel yield per plant ranged from -36.33 to 68.64 per cent, while the standard heterosis for kernel yield per plant ranged from -10.56 to 100.99 per cent. The cross viz., BLD 2 × BLD 103, BLD 2 × BLD 98, WNC 40406 × BLD 125, WNC 40080 × BLD 125 and BLD 2 × VL 109178 were possessed highest value of heterobeltiosis in significant and desirable direction. While crosses viz., BLD 114 × IMR 113, BLD 2 × BLD 103 and WNC 52646 × BLD 125 were recorded significant and positive standard heterosis over the standard check GAYMH 1.