Line × Tester Analysis for Kernel Yield and Component Traits in Maize: Heterosis, combining ability and gene action analysis for yield and its contributing traits in maize (Zea mays L.)

Maize (Zea mays L.), known as the "Queen of the cereals," is one of important crops globally, with wide adaptability to diverse environmental conditions. It is used for human food, animal feed and in various industries such as ethanol and starch production. Maize is a C4 plant, making it physiologically efficient and resilient to climate change. It was domesticated in Mexico from teosinte over 10,000 years ago. Maize is a monoecious plant with distinct male (tassel) and female (ear) inflorescences and it predominantly undergoes cross-pollination due to its protandry nature. Maize is crucial for nutrition, especially in developing countries and has significant agricultural and industrial value. Heterosis and combining ability are important tools for developing economically viable varieties. Parental selection playing a pivotal role in hybrid development. The Line × Tester mating design offers valuable insights into the general and specific combining ability effects of parents and their hybrid combinations, providing essential information about the gene actions governing the expression of various quantitative traits.