Maize topcrosses for yield performance by additive main effects and multiplicative interaction analysis

The analysis of main additive effects and multiplicative interaction is commonly used in the evaluation of the genotype x environment interaction, however, its application can be used for other purposes, as it is performed in the present research, which uses this technique in the selection of inbred lines, testers and hybrids in maize topcrosses. This research determined the effect of the inbred lines x testers interaction through the analysis of main additive effects and multiplicative interaction, verifying their efficiency in the selection of inbred lines, testers and hybrid combinations in topcrosses. The trials were carried out in the 2015/16 and 2016/17 crop seasons, with a complete block design, with three replications. Thirty S, maize inbred lines were evaluated in crosses with the AG8025, P30B39, MLP102, 60.H23.1 and 70.H26.1 testers forming 150 hybrids topcrosses. The trait evaluated was grain yield. The adaptability and stability of testers and inbred lines were evaluated by the methodology of analysis of main additive effects and multiplicative interaction directed to the interaction of testers x inbred lines. The 96.3 inbred line has the most homogeneous performance and the highest grain yield, considering the crossing with all testers in both environments. The 70.H26.1 tester is considered the most stable and the most recommended for topcrosses. The best specific combinations were 96.3 x 70.H26.1 and 96.3 x 60.H23.1.