Relationship between Grain Yield and Quality Traits under Optimum and Low-Nitrogen Stress Environments in Tropical Maize

Breeding for nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) is important to deal with food insecurity and its effect on grain quality, particularly protein. A total of 1679 hybrids were evaluated in 16 different trials yield (GY), quality traits (protein, starch oil content) kernel weight (KW) under optimum managed low soil fields Kiboko, Kenya, from 2011 2014. The objectives our study understand (i) the N stress GY traits, (ii) relationship between each management condition (iii) low-N versus conditions. From results, we observed negative effects GY, KW percentage protein content, a positive content. correlation all was very weak both had strong Protein content significantly There no clear among N, except Therefore, it seems feasible simultaneously improve along conditions, However, trend (starch) suggests need regular monitoring identify varieties that combine high acceptable quality. Finally, recommend further research few tropical maize genotypes contrasting NUE change