Multienvironment Analysis of Traits Relation and Hybrids Comparison of Maize Based on the Genotype by Trait Biplot

Abstract

Problem statement: The Genotype by Trait (GT) biplot can be used to compare cultivars on the basis of multiple traits and to identify cultivars that are particularly good in certain traits and therefore can be candidates for parents in plant breeding program. Approach: The objective of this study was to evaluate the maize hybrids based on Genotype by Traits (GT) biplot to examine its usefulness in visualizing maize trait relationship and its application in hybrids comparison. Results: Correlation coefficient between phenological-agronomic traits showed that there is a strong positive relationship between all of the measured traits, except Anthesis-Silking Interval (ASI). This pattern approximately repeated during three years. Also, correlation coefficient between grain yield components reveals a positive or negative relation between measured traits. These results reflect the complexity of the correlation among the grain yield components. The genotype by trait comparison indicated that KSC 700 had greater value for rows number per ear and kernel depth whereas OSSK 602 and ZP 684 had greater value for thousand kernel weight and grain number per row. Conclusion: Results indicate that the pattern of the polygon view traits varied across three years. Consequently, GT biplot describes the interrelationships among traits and it was used to identifying hybrids that are good for some particular traits.