Classification of Maize Inbred Line based on Agro-Morphological Traits in order to Produce Hybrid Seed

Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most cultivated crops worldwide, owing to its versatility and wide adaptability, and serves as food, animal feed, and raw material for various industrial products. The purpose of the current research was the classification of maize inbred lines in order to produce hybrid seeds based on agro-morphological traits. Each of 100 maize inbred lines was planted in 6 pots as 6 replications and arranged in completely randomized design in an open area near to greenhouse in 2015. The result of the analysis of variance revealed significant differences among lines for all studied traits. The highest correlation was seen between cob’s length and cob’s weight. Stepwise regression analysis revealed that 66.4% of seed yield per plant variation was determined by cob’s length and cob’s weight. Cluster analysis divided inbred lines into 4 groups. The highest Mahalanobis distance (28.07) was observed between cluster 2 and 4. The result of principal component analysis confirmed the calcification by cluster analysis. The genotypes from groups 2 and 4 can be potentially used as parental lines in hybrid varieties production and development of segregating populations.