MODIFIED MASS SELECTION WITHIN CORN SYNTHETIC VARIETY

Abstract

This research  was undertaken to evaluate five cycles of modified mass selection to improve grain yield in synthetic corn (Zea mays L.) variety IPA-5018. The selection was carried out in spring and fall seasons, during, 2013-2015 using 10% selection intensity. The five  populations obtained after selection and the original population were evaluated. The experimental design was a randomized complete block design with five replications. The results were revealed a significant differences among selection cycles in grain yield and some yield components.  The cycle five produced highest grain yield (9699.30 kg.ha^-1) and increased 34.88% to the original population. The regression of grain yield, number of grains.ear^-1 and grain weight to selection cycles were significantly linear and R² more than 80%. We  concluded that the  modified mass selection  could be used successfully in improving the grain yield and some yield components of  corn synthetic varieties.