Assessing Effect of Marker-Based Improvement of Maize Synthetics on Agronomic Performance, Carotenoid Content, Combining Ability and Heterosis

摘要: Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) is a serious problem in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and other parts of the world. Understanding effect marker-based improvement (MARS) two maize synthetics (HGA HGB) representing different heterotic groups on their agronomic performance, carotenoid content, combining abilities could help identify suitable sources to develop divergent inbred lines for optimizing heterosis. This study involved three selection cycles each nine varietal-cross hybrids together with released check variety was conducted across four diverse locations Nigeria 2018 2019. Environment hybrid effects were significant grain yield traits as well provitamin content carotenoids. Genetic per cycle MARS parental 15% A, 25% β-carotene 26% lutein HGA 4% yield, 3% zeaxanthin 5% α-carotene HGB. Grain controlled by additive non-additive gene effects, while carotenoids mainly effects. Some which high identified potential new breeding programs. expressed mid-parent heterosis moderate xanthophylls. These be commercialized at reasonable prices small-scale farmers rural areas that are most affected vitamin deficiency.