Analysis of maize populations for developing quality protein maize

Abstract

Maize, being a staple food crop in a large segment of the human population, is the most suitable crop for nutritional enhancement. Quality protein maize (QPM) is a nutritionally improved commodity possessing enhanced levels of limiting amino acids such as lysine and tryptophan. In order to identify promising germplasm for developing high-yielding QPM genotypes a meta-study comprising twenty maize populations containing 441 genotypes was conducted. The experimental lines were analysed for protein quality (protein and tryptophan), and physical parameters including hundred kernel weight (HKW) and specific gravity. Twelve populations showed desirable tryptophan content (>0.51%). Ten populations showed high values (>22) for HKW. The population S91SIWQ showed the highest value (1.289) for specific gravity. A moderately negative to strongly negative correlation has been observed between protein and tryptophan. Although a negative correlation has been observed between HKW and tryptophan content, however on the basis of data generated, three populations namely P69, S87, and S-99TLWQ-HGB were found to be the potential populations for the development of the hard kernel, high yielding QPM cultivars.