Combining ability and heterosis in maize landraces

Abstract

Maize landraces are an important genetic patrimony and gene sources of tolerance/resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses, which should be characterized in relation to the breeding potential. The aims of this study were to determine the landraces potential per se and in crosses; to identify genetic materials for intrapopulation selection and composites synthesis in two places. In 2000/01, thirty one populations per se, thirty one top-crosses intragroup and two hibrids were evaluated using an 8×8 lattice, with five and four replications in Palmeira and Londrina, Paraná, Brazil, respectively. The results of the populations per se showed different performances for each local, but BR 106, Cabo Roxo, Palha Roxa, Ouro Verde e Comum Antigo x Sabugo Fino showed higher grain yield means in both places, that did not differ significantly to the means of the commercial checks (AG1051 and C125). The average heterosis effects were significant for grain yield, plant height, ear placement and root lodging percentage, without local interactions. The top-crosses produced 10.2% (Palmeira) and 8.5% (Londrina) more than the same populations per se. The populations Palha Roxa; Milho Sem Nome; Pintado e Comum Antigo x Sabugo Fino showed the highest effects of general combining ability for grain yield and took part in the better composite predictions.