Seventy-nine inbred lines derived from related sources DC58, DC31, and DC96 were crossed to three inbred line testers CML202, CML204, and CML206. The objective of this experiment was to identify lines of opposite heterotic groups for use in the development of hybrids. Experiments were planted in three locations and two replications in Kenya in 2001. A selection index was apphed on the single crosses for grain yield, maturity, anthesis-silking interval, ear height, husk cover, ear rot, gray leaf spot, and turcicum blight. The results of the selection index and the general and specific combining ability (GCA and SCA respectively) effects were used to predict the potential use of particu1ar inbred lines in single, three-way or double cross hybrid combinations. No clear-cut pattem for combining ability was observed from lines in any particular background.Inbred line 347-2-2 had particularly high GCA, while line 244-2-1 had a high SCA with CML206. The combined results of the selection index and SCA effects identified lines that indicate potential top performance in a single cross hybrid combination. The best single cross was predicted to be line 244-2-1 x line 249-1-4. An additional six lines with high GCA effects (302-1-2,326-2-2, 340-3-2,348-1-2, S2-348-1-3, and 348-3-2) were identified to be of value in the development of a synthetic.

English

0309|AGRIS 0301|AL-Maize Program

Juan Carlos Mendieta

CIMMYT Publications Collection