Genetic variability, heritability, and genetic advance for yield and yield-yield related traits in maize (Zea mays L.)

Abstract

Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most important cereal crops worldwide, serving as a staple food, animal feed, and raw material for industries. Improving maize yield is essential to meet rising global food demand, and knowledge of genetic variability, heritability, and genetic advance of yield-contributing traits is crucial for effective breeding. In this study, 40 maize inbred lines along with two commercial check varieties were evaluated in a randomized block design with two replications during the Kharif season of 2024 at R. K. Nagar Farm, Kolhapur, under the All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Maize. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among genotypes for all 13 traits studied, indicating ample genetic variability. Grain yield per plant, cob weight exhibited high genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean was observed for grain yield per plant (h² = 95.5%, GAM = 60.37%), cob weight (h² = 96.1%, GAM = 54.42%), and number of kernel rows per cob (h² = 89.4%, GAM = 28.12%), suggesting predominance of additive gene action. These traits are therefore promising for effective selection and genetic improvement. The results provide valuable insights for maize breeders in developing high-yielding varieties.