Genetic diversity and decoding the genetics of phytic acid by investigating the inheritance of lpa 2 allele in maize (Zea mays L.)

Developing biofortified maize varieties with increased bioavailability of nutrients is crucial for addressing global food challenges and meeting the diverse needs of growing population. Hence, to formulate need based breeding programme, a comprehensive multidimensional approach was employed to assess the variability among 49 inbreds. PCA analysis revealed that single plant yield along with hundred kernel weight, number of kernels per row, number of kernel rows, cob length, ear height, cob diameter and leaf length contributed maximum towards variability. However, phytic acid displayed a relatively lower contribution to the overall variability. Based on cluster analysis , inbreds in the cluster III were found to have maximum mean performance for yield and its associated traits. Cluster V showed maximum mean performance for Pi. Based on the results, the genotype lpa 2 - UMI 395 from cluster V was selected as donor for hybridisation. From UMI 1201 x lpa 2-UMI 395 and UMI 1230 x lpa 2-UMI 395 crosses, a total of 11 and 10 F_2:3 plants were identified respectively as homozygous for lpa 2 using molecular markers. The selected plants with lpa 2 allele were found to have Pi in the range of 1.1 and 1.4 mg/g. Inheritance pattern of phytic acid based on these observations confirmed the recessive nature of the trait. Hence, these selected plants with lpa 2 allele can be selected for yield and its associated traits in further generations.