Test Cross Performance and Combining Ability of Maize (Zea Mays L.) Inbred Lines at Bako, Western Ethiopia

Abstract

Information on combining ability and heterotic grouping for newly developed inbred lines is of paramount importance to design future breeding strategies for the development of hybrid and synthetic varieties. The objectives of the present study were to examine combining ability and to determine heterotic groups of the inbred lines for grain yield and other desirable traits. Twenty five inbred lines were used for the formation of the experimental crosses using line x tester mating design. The resulting 50 F1 crosses plus two standard checks (BH540 and BH543) were evaluated at Bako, Western Ethiopia in 2012 main cropping season. The entries were arranged in alpha lattice design with three replications.