Genetic Divergence Studies in Maize (Zea Mays L.) Inbreds for Yield and ITS Components

Genetic diversity analysis of maize inbreds for their suitability in hybrid breeding was undertaken using ninety eight inbreds and four high yielding checks. The experiment was conducted during summer 2015 under irrigated condition in RBD with two replications. Mahalanobis ’D² statistics was employed to assess the amount of genetic diversity. The inbreds fell into thirteen clusters, of which, cluster I was larger comprising of sixty eight inbred lines, followed by cluster III (14 inbreds) and cluster V (10 inbreds) showing similarity among the lines therein. Remaining ten clusters were solitary, showing their distinctness and diversity. Wide range of inter cluster distance was observed between the clusters VII and XIII (14.58) followed by cluster X and XII (14.23) inferring usefulness in hybridization between the members of such clusters. Traits directly associated with grain yield, had higher mean values in cluster X and VII for cob weight (223.50; 183.5) and grain yield (182.50; 80.90) respectively. Traits like, fodder yield per plant (32.32%) and shelling percentage (20.52) were the major factors which contributed highest to the diversity among the inbreds. The breeding material showed high genetic diversity which could be utilized in development of Single Cross hybrids (SCH's), composites and verities for high yield. These inbreds lines could also be selected to determine gca and sca for more successful hybrid breeding.