Evaluation of the combining ability of twenty maize lines in a partial diallel cross

Abstract

Aiming to identify inbred lines derived from two materials of maize (Zea mays L.) of different genetic basis to be used for obtaining more stable hybrids, a diallelic cross was carried out generating 100 single crosses which were evaluated at Sete Lagoas (MG), Linhares (ES) and Aracaju (SE). A simple 10 x 10 Lattice design with two replications per location was used. Data were collected for harvested ear in kg/ha, and submitted to a genetic analysis. The combined analysis showed significance for the interactions of hybrids, and for general and specific combining ability with locations. For the individual analysis within locations the mean square estimates were also significant (P < 0,01) for hybrids and general combining ability. The relative magnitude of general and specific combining ability estimates showed a predominance of additive genic effects. A specificity of hybrids for each location was observed. Hybrids L7 x L4', L7 x L7' and L1 x L9' were the most productive at Sete Lagoas, Linhares and Aracaju, respectively.