Association study in different generations of Maize (Zea mays L.)

Six generations (parents, first and second filial generations and two backcrosses) of two cross combinations of Maize (Zea mays L.) were studied for nature of gene action and correlated response for the five quantitative traits (viz., days to silking, days to maturity, ear height, cob weight per plant and grain yield per day). Significant role of dominance gene action was found for the inheritance of most of the traits. Additive gene action and epistatic interaction were also evident for the inheritance of different traits. A test of homogeneity of simple linear correlation coefficient from different generations revealed the existence of significantly different extent of association between the traits in different cross combinations. The significant correlations in parents were different from that of filial generations. Similarly, the expressivity of genes was found changed in segregating and non-segregating generations too for significantly associated traits. Based on the mode of inheritance and association of these traits, the choice of breeding procedures would be more effective for the improvement of parental material.