Combining ability analysis of newer inbred lines derived from national yellow pool for grain yield and other quantitative traits in maize (Zea mays L.)

Information on combing ability is important for effective breeding strategies in a cross pollinated crop like maize. Twenty nine inbred lines were derived from national yellow pool based on their performance in their S4 generation. Twenty nine lines, three testers and their 87 hybrids from a line x tester design were evaluated for grain yield and its components. The SCA variance was higher than GCA variance for all the characters indicating the predominance of non-additive gene action. Line x tester interaction variance was found significant for all the traits except ear length, ear circumference, shelling percentage and fodder yield. The line YP®4#07–20 was the best general combiner and the cross YP®4#07–20 X CI-5 was identified as good specific combiner.