Early generation identification and utilization of potential inbred lines in modified single cross hybrids of maize (Zea mays L.)

Abstract

The essential pre-requisite for commercial production of single cross maize hybrids is the development of vigorous high yielding inbred parents. A modified form of Forward and Reverse Inbreeding Process (FRIP) [1] was used to develop modified single cross hybrids. This method involves inbreeding using selfing in the early generations followed by plant-to-plant sibbing, early generation testing of lines, deriving sister lines, recombining sister lines and finally using sister line crosses to develop modified single cross hybrids. The improved performance of the inbred lines so derived and also of the experimental hybrids tested at two diverse locations in this study, substantiates the effectiveness of this methodology. Inbred testers were used in test crossing and their utility in hybrid development is discussed.