Genetic variation and trait association of maize hybrids under irrigated and drought-stress environments

Drought stress is the principal cause of production losses in maize (Zea mays L.), especially a rainfed ecosystem. Reducing yield penalty under conditions demands development hybrids with improved tolerance to drought stress. The extent genetic variability and association among traits over irrigated water of  72 were studied. analysis variation reveaeds that significant was observed conditions, which provides scope for identifying drought-tolerant hybrids. average reduction 60.26 per cent this study ASI increased by 56.20 cent. Under stress, high GCV (36.74 %), plot (31.96 leaf rolling (29.65 senescence (27.79 %) ears plant (24.40%) Furthermore, such as height (0.95), width (0.83), number leaves (0.68), ear (0.67), (0.64) (0.61) found have heritability condition.. correlation studies revealed harmonized positively all attributes negatively associated Anthesis silking interval (ASI). Moreover, path coefficient suggests kernels row are essential secondary exhibits positive direct effect on yield. Thus, consideration coupled will be helpful selecting potential Keywords :  Maize, drought, heritability, yield,