Research Projects

Yield in maize is a complex trait influenced by various traits, including kernel row number (KRN) and cob length (CL). Although it is challenging to directly understand the genetic architecture and molecular mechanisms of grain yield, genetic enhancement of yield components can improve yield. Heterosis, a phenomenon in cross-pollinated crops, can be exploited to sustain maize production and productivity. Breeders must carefully select inbred parents with high heterotic effects when crossed due to superior combining ability. Hybrid breeding requires complementary parental lines with a proven genetic base for superior performance. Studies suggest that systematic classification of available maize germplasm pools into different heterotic groups and deriving parental lines from respective pools can exploit the advantage of heterozygosity. However, genomic selection yields more relevant products in a short breeding cycle than phenotypic selection. KRN and CL traits have been extensively studied in plant breeding and molecular biology. If the exact genetic value of inbred lines is extracted, additive and dominance variance can be fully exploited.