Partial Diallel Analysis Of Maize Inbred Lines For Grain Yield And Resistance To Gray Leaf Spot Including Reciprocal Effects

The use of diallel crosses for breeding of disease-resistant genotypes with high grain yield is a common practice in maize (Zea mays L.) breeding programs. The objective of this study was to evaluate the grain yield and resistance to gray leaf spot of maize inbred lines and hybrids, including reciprocals,using a new diallel model approach, described in a recent publication, to estimate the effects of general and specific combining abilities and reciprocal effects partitioned in maternal and cytoplasmic effects. For a simultaneous increase in grain yield and genetic resistance to gray leaf spot, D3 is the most promising inbred line for future combinations, in view of the positive GCA effects for grain yield and negative effects for C. zeina severity.The hybrid combinations D2 x F3, D3 x F5 and D4 x F3 should be used in future field trials. Based on the estimates of the reciprocal effects, D6 is recommended as female parent in hybrid combinations for resistance to Cercospora zeina