Biochemical determinants of maize hybrid resistance to corn leaf aphid (Rhopalosiphum maidis) (Fitch)

Biochemical factors like total soluble sugars, total reducing sugars, total free amino acids, crude proteins, phenols and tannins were analysed and correlated with CLA incidence after preliminary screening trials. The results revealed that the infestation was significant and correlated positively with leaf content of total soluble sugars (0.832**), total reducing sugars (0.920**), total free amino acids (0.875**) and crude proteins (0.953**). While a significant negative correlation was observed in case of phenols (-0.931**) and tannins (-0.924**). Similarly, the infestation on tassels was significant and correlated positively with total soluble sugars (0.936**), total reducing sugars (0.922**), total free amino acids (0.974**) and crude proteins (0.976**), whereas, a significant negative correlation was observed with phenols (-0.863**) and tannins (-0.973**). These biochemical insights could aid in developing resilient maize cultivars and effective pest management strategies.