Heterotic pattern of some early generation inbreds derived from two maize (Zea mays L.) populations

Abstract

Limited attempts have been made at the population level to identify heterotic patterns among CIMMYT's maize (Zea mays L.) populations and pools [1]. In such endeavours, interpopulation crosses have been found superior to intrapopulation crosses. However, a tew of intrapopulation crosses have been reported at par with the best interpopulation combinations [2]. There are ample evidences which do suggest that assessment of heterotic patterns of early generation inbreds (81/82/83 lines) would be desirable as it minimizes the cost and labour in carrying them over to complete homozygosity [3]. The primary objective of this study was to generate information on the heterotic patterns of some 81 lines derived from two populations and eventually to form a new heterotic group.