Genetic Variation of Plant Height and Stem Diameter Traits in Maize (Zea mays L.) under Drought Stress at Different Growth Stages

Abstract

Plant height and stem diameter are essential traits in maize breeding. A study was carried out to estimate the extent of genetic variability in genotypes of Maize (Zea mays L.). Fifteen genotypes of maize were evaluated on season (2003/2004) across the two environments in Sudan, to obtain information on morphological and genetic diversity in plant height and stem diameter traits were estimated in a split-plot layout within randomized complete block design with three replications. Significant differences among genotypes were found in all traits, except stem diameter (45 days). High genotypic coefficient of variation, genetic advance and heritability were exhibited by plant height at 60 days and stem diameter at 60 days. Grain yield was significantly and positively associated, at the phenotypic level, with a plant height at 45 days and a stem diameter at 45 days. Based on the results the characters plant height and a stem diameter to be the important characters which would be used in selection for maize improvement under drought stress at vegetative and reproductive stages.

Keywords: Maize (Zea mays L.), Genetic variability, plant height, stem diameter, drought.