Heterosis response for green fodder yield and its quality traits in forage maize (Zea mays (L.)

Abstract

Using Line x Tester mating design, 45 hybrids were produced and evaluated to know the extent of heterosis over better parent for green forage yield per plant and its quality traits in forage maize. The hybrids exhibited significant heterobeltiosis in desired direction for green forage yield per plant and its quality traits. Crosses African Tall x GWC-0319 and African Tall x GWC-0321 exhibited maximum significant positive hetero-beltiosis for green forage yield per plant with its quality traits, thus, strengthening the scope of heterosis breeding in forage maize. For dry matter content, the range of heterobeltiosis was from –26.33% (African Tall x IC-130643) to 24.74 % (GM-6 x GWC-0321). For dry matter yield per plant, the range of heterobeltiosis was from –50.80% (J-1006 x GWC-9603) to 122.79 % (African Tall x GWC-0319). For crude protein content, the range of heterobeltiosis was from –11.27% (J-1006 x GWC-0319) to 9.78 % (African Tall x GWC-0321). For crude protein yield per plant, the range of heterobeltiosis was from –53.10% (IC-130726 x GWC-0319) to 128.78 % (African Tall x GWC-0321).