Author
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Stuber, Charles |
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Submitted to: Society of New Zealand Agronomy Proceedings
Publication Type: Proceedings Publication Acceptance Date: 1/31/1996 Publication Date: N/A Citation: N/A Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: A major recent study in maize focused on the genetic basis of heterosis in a widely used single cross hybrid (B73 x Mo17). Using DNA-based markers, QTLs affecting grain yield were found on most chromosomes. Although there was some evidence for overdominant gene action, much was of the dominant type. In a companion study, QTLs were identified in two elite maize inbred lines, Tx303 and Oh43, that were expected to enhance the heterotic response found in the B73 x Mo17 hybrid. Marker-facilitated backcrossing was used to transfer one to four targeted QTLs from Tx303 into B73 and from Oh43 into Mo17. "Enhanced" B73 lines were crossed with "Enhanced" Mo17 lines and the resulting hybrids were evaluated in replicated field tests. Nearly all of the "Enhanced" hybrids yielded as much grain as check hybrids, and the highest yielding hybrids exceeded the checks by 10 to 12% (15-20 bushels per acre). These results were based on field tests over three years and demonstrated that marker-facilitated technology can be successfully employed to manipulate complexly inherited traits, such as grain yield. |
