Phenotypic performance of new pro-vitamin A maize (<i>Zea mays</i> L.) hybrids using three selection indices

Abstract The development of new bio-fortified maize hybrids is crucial for achieving food security and alleviation micronutrient deficiencies. This study aims at assessing the performance pro-vitamin A identifying potential high-yielding using base index, multivariate selection rank summation index. Twenty-four one hybrid check were evaluated in rainy seasons 2018 2019 Ladoke Akintola University Technology Teaching Research farm Ogbomoso, Nigeria. Hybrids planted each year a 5 × α lattice design with three replications. Data collected on grain yield agronomic traits analysed. showed significant ( P &lt; 0.001) variations all measured except plant aspect streak virus scores. mean over two years varied from 1,106 kg/ha (LY 1312-12) to 5,144 1501-9). highest yielding across had 31% advantage single-cross used as check. index differential (34%) yield. strong correlation (r = ‒0.86 +++ ) followed by ‒0.56 ). indices identified superior three-way cross 1409-21, LY 1501-9 1501-1) slight change order. These outstanding which combine high productivity nutrients may be considered advanced multi-location on-farm testing before their release farmers derived savanna agroecology