Unveiling hybrid potential and exploring combining ability for yield and related traits in maize (Zea mays L.) through line × tester mating design

<p>Combining ability analysis serves as an invaluable tool for evaluating the compatibility of parental lines and testers, as well as for elucidating the intricate genetic mechanisms at play within their hybrid progeny. This study was designed to ascertain the combining ability of maize lines when paired with testers, specifically focusing on yield-related traits through the utilization of a line × tester mating design. A total of fifteen advanced lines were systematically crossbred with three distinct testers to produce forty-five hybrid test crosses. The performance of these progenies was rigorously assessed across three distinct locations, thereby enhancing the robustness of the findings. The field trials were conducted using an alpha lattice design. Variance analysis, combining ability effects, and genetic components were estimated following a line × tester analysis. Employing variance analysis, significant variations were discerned in both general and specific combining abilities, underscoring the contribution of both additive and non-additive gene actions to the expression of the targeted traits. Notably, the magnitudes variance component indicated the prevalence of additive gene effects across the traits studied. Amidst the comprehensive exploration of parental lines and testers, it was evident that lines L10 and Tester T2 exhibited notable compatibility as general combiners, particularly in the context of maize grain yield. Additionally, Line L12 demonstrated favorable characteristics related to earliness. The superior performance of certain hybrid combinations emerged as a noteworthy outcome of this investigation. Specifically, the hybrid cross L10 × T2 displayed remarkable performance in terms of grain yield, while L12 × T1 demonstrated strong potential for the trait days to anthesis. Furthermore, in terms of specific combining ability, the cross L13 × T1 demonstrated the most pronounced effect, particularly concerning grain yield. Following closely were the combinations L5 × T1 and L2 × T2, each exhibiting significant potential for enhancing maize productivity. To conclude, this study underscores the indispensable role of combining ability analysis in elucidating the interplay between parental lines and testers, thus unraveling the intricate genetic dynamics within their hybrid offspring. The insights gathered hold promise for advancing maize production by employing judicious selection strategies, with a specific focus on the highlighted hybrid combinations.</p>