Genetic variability, and Stem borer resistance of some Maize (Zea mays L.) genotypes

Abstract

The study was conducted in the experimental farm of the College of Agricultural Studies at Shambat and Gezira University at Madani .The objectives were to evaluate the performance of 17 maize genotypes resistant to stem borer. An experiment was conducted under irrigation in winter season (2014/2015). The experiment consisted of thirteen genotypes developed by Maize Research Program, Agricultural Research Corporation (ARC), and three lines developed at the National Institute for Promotion of Horticultural Exports University of Gezira, together with Mugtama-45 as the local check. The different genotypes were arranged in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replications. Growth and Yield parameters included (Days to 50% tasseling, plant height (cm), leaf area), yield (t/ ha) and its components (number of row per ear, kernel weight (g), grain yield (t/ha) were studied. All the studied trait showed non-significant differences between locations at 5% level among the 17 genotypes. Indicating the presence of genetic variability among the different genotypes Non-significant interaction between Genotype × seasons (G× S).Genotypes at Medani and Shambat sites showed significant differences for days to 50% tasseling. Genotypes at Medani and Shambat sites were significant differences at 1% for plant height. Non- significantly different at Medani and Shambat for leaf area. Highly broad sense heritability estimates (19% - 73%) were shown by the measured traits. Grain yield showed high and positive correlations number with rows per ear with kernel weight (=0.4) and total yield (=0.6). High grain yield 3.7 and 3.5 t/ha was recorded for the genotypes C407 and M2, respectively. However non- significant difference obtained for the cultivar Mugtama-45 used as control which recorded 3 t/ha. The genotypes resistant C402, C403, C404, C408, C412, M2, and M3 showed the best genotypes for stem borer infestation at the two sites with an infestation rate of less than 1.