Combining Ability of Maize (Zea mays L.) Line for Grain Yield in Mali

Mali experiences irregular and poor distribution of rains which limit maize production greatly. The study objective was to evaluate the performance various hybrids as well determine general specific combining ability lines under water limited conditions. Two trials were conducted at Sotuba Kassela in South-Western with 23 genotypes first trial 15 second trial. experimental design a completely random Fisher block design. Morphological agronomic traits evaluated lines/testers crossing scheme where testers females males. Results showed significant difference (P< 0.05) for ear height, days anthesis, silking, grain yield, leaf width, plant aspect, 1000 weight. In both sites, significantly different between whereas differed lines. best performing hybrid term yield observed TZI1876/9071 (6,003 kg/ha), highest yielding TZI1876/CML442 (6,320 kg/ha).