MODE OF INHERITANCE OF ZINC ACCUMULATION IN MAIZE

The present study was undertaken to investigate the genetic nature of zinc (Zn) accumulation in the ear-leaves of maize (Zea mays L. ) plants. Fourteen inbred lines were evaluated. Out of which, five inbreds were chosen, two high Zn accumulators (Rg-5 and Rd-2), two low Zn accumulators (Rg-8 and G-307) and a moderate one (K-64). These five parental inbreds were utilized to obtain all possible ten Fl hybrids (in one direction), 10 F2, 10 BI, and 10 B2. All genotypes were planted and Zn was estimated at 50% tasseling stage. Zinc accumulation in the present genotypes was found to be genetically controlled and affected by additive genes. Significant values were obtained for the General Combining Abilities (GCA) but not for the Specific Combining Abilities (SCA) and the high Zn accumulating parents were the best general combiners. Four genes were found to be the minimum segregating factors in the (high x low) crosses for Zn accumulation.