Genetic components for fodder yield and agronomic characters in maize lines

In maize hybrid development, it is essential to know the parent’s performance per se in different environments as well as the genetic base in populations in order to facilitate selection of superior lines. The objective of this work was to estimate the genetic variance and heritability while assessing agronomic behavior in 237 maize fodder lines featuring different inbred levels and origin in two different locations. Traits such as plant height, cob height, stem diameter, and fodder yield were taken. A combined variance analysis was carried out using this information. The variable mean squares showing significant differences were used to estimate the genetic variance components. Significant differences were observed (p ≤ 0.01) for the line variation source and location × line interaction in all assessed characteristics. The genetic parameter estimation provided information on the existing genetic variance and heritability among the population which is important for the progress of the selection process. Lines CLWN701, CLWN345, CML476, CML216, CLWQ232, and CML 528 measured 74.8, 72.2, 67.7, 65.8, 63.8 and 62.5 t ha, respectively showed the highest yield potential for green fodder.