Grain yield and its relationship with yield components in selected maize (Zea mays L.) varieties under natural fall armyworm infestation in Mozambique

Maize is a staple cereal crop, source of nutrients, and income for more than 70% of people living in Mozambique. However, fall armyworm (FAW), a major biotic constraint, reduces maize grain production in the country. The use of host-plant resistance is a sustainable approach for FAW control; thus, the study evaluated yield performance and the relationship among yield components in selected maize varieties under natural FAW infestation. The trial was conducted in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The maize varieties showed variability for FAW leaf damage and yield performance. SP-1 and Mucumbe were FAW resistant with high-yielding performance, while PAN 3M-01 and PRIS 601 recorded the highest FAW damages and lowest grain yields. The negative correlations between FAW leaf damage with grain yield and its components further demonstrated the FAW effect. Grain yield showed a positive relationship with the number of grains per ear, ear length, ear diameter, and ear height. This is important since grain yield is a mega-trait highly influenced by environmental conditions, and selecting these traits would simultaneously improve grain yield. Therefore, farmers should also consider these traits when selecting high-yielding maize varieties.