Studies on combining ability and identification of single cross hybrids for grain yield and its component traits of maize (Zea mays L.)

An investigation was carried out to estimate combining ability and heterosisin maize (Zea mays L.) at the University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad during 2018. Combining ability analysis using line × tester design was conducted in inbred lines by crossing 15 lines with three testers. The variance ratio (ratio of GCA to SCA) revealed that the expressions of traits under this study were predominantly controlled by non-additive gene action. The lines viz., DMIL 3, DMIL 30 and DMIL 35 and tester DMIL 58 were identified as best general combiners for grain yield. Among crosses, DMIL 30 × DMIL 58, DMIL 17 × DMIL 58 and DMIL 35 × DMIL 58exhibited highest significant SCAeffects and high heterosis over checks for grain yield. These hybrids need to be further evaluated across locations and over seasons to select best hybrids for commercial exploitation.