The effect of genotype x pollination mode interaction on kernel modification in quality protein maize (QPM) genotypes

Abstract

Kernel vitreousness or texture is one of the most important prerequisites for successful adoption of the Quality Protein Maize (QPM) genotypes by the farmers. The present study was carried out to analyze in detail the effects of pollination mode (controlled- versus openpollination) on different kernel attributes (endosperm modification, crown modification and ear appearance) in a set of QPM inbred lines and their experimental crosses. QPM genotypes were found to differ significantly with respect to kernel modification, indicating genetic heterogeneity for endosperm modifier genes. Analysis of ears obtained from different pollination modes indicated significant interaction of the genotypes with the pollination mode, suggesting the importance of the source of pollen and its genetic constitution in conferring the kernel texture. The study also demonstrates that the data derived using controlled-pollination could be more reliable than those using the open-pollination mode for analyzing the effects of complementation of endosperm modifier genes in QPM cross combinations. Ascertaining the kernel modification potential of the QPM genotypes would aid in proper selection of genotypes during QPM breeding.