Exploring the use of testers to maximize selection accuracy of partially inbred S3 popcorn progenies

Abstract

The development of superior hybrid cultivars depends on the identification of lines with greater combining ability. This study compared the discrimination and combining ability of four testers when crossed with 43 partially endogamous S3 popcorn (Zea mays L. var. everta) progenies by the Residual or Restricted Maximum Likelihood and Best Linear Unbiased Prediction (REML/BLUP) approach. Yield and morphological components of genotypes were evaluated. The experiment was arranged in a complete block design with three replicates at two locations (in the North and Northwestern regions of the State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil). The REML/BLUP approach was able to efficiently discriminate and estimate the combining abilities for all traits assessed. Testers BRS-Angela and P2 had positive effects on all yield components, indicating their suitability as potential parents of hybrids in crosses with S3 progenies. The negative genotypic effects were the highest for the testers IAC 125 and UENF 14, indicating that they could be used to adequately identify the progenies with the highest potential among the evaluated genotypes. Overall, at both locations, tester IAC 125 was the best discriminator of the relative merits of S3 progenies, while BRSAngela was the tester with the best hybrid yield.