Evaluation of genetic potential for various traits in maize hybrids (Zea mays L.) extracted from crosses with CIMMYT germplasm

Combining ability analysis for yield and related yield was performed with seven lines, four testers and the resulting 28 hybrids using Line x Tester analysis. The analysis of variance revealed significant differences among the hybrids for grain yield, 1000-grain weight, number of row per ear and harvest index. The interaction of Line x Tester was significant for grain yield, number of rows per ear and harvest index. The ratio of GCA to SCA variances was less than unity for all traits studied which indicates the predominant role of non additive gene action play in the inheritance of all the characters studied hybrids. Among the lines, L4 was found as the best general combiner for grain yield and 1000 grain yield traits. Considering the testers, T4 was found as the best general combiner for grain yield, 1000 grain yield and number of rows per ear traits. Among the crosses, the four crosses L7 x T2, L6 x T3, L3 x T2 and L4 x T4 were found to be the best specific combinations for most of the characters studied.