Genetic diversity for resistance to larger grain borer in maize hybrids and open pollinated varieties in Kenya
Abstract
208 words
Modern maize varieties and hybrids possess improved
agronomic performance and tolerance to abiotic and biotic
stresses. However, breeding for the traits that contribute to
resistance to post harvest pests have not been given due
attention. In Africa, lack of resistant varieties and appropriate
grain storage technologies lead up to 20-30% losses, particularly
due to post harvest pests. The larger grain borer (LGB) is
currently the most damaging post-harvest pests of maize, causing
substantial losses, and aggravating hunger and poverty. A total
of 100 genotypes comprising of hybrids and open pollinated
varieties were evaluated in Kiboko from October 2009. A 20x5
alpha lattice design with three replications was used.
Morphological and bio-physical traits were measured.
Harvested maize genotypes were sun dried for a week after
which samples of 100g were taken for evaluation for larger
grain borer resistance. The samples were incubated under
ambient conditions for three months after which the contents
of each jar were sieved to separate grains, insects, and powder
(flour produced). There were significant (P<0.05) differences
among the maize genotypes on the amount of flour produced
due to larger grain borer damage, the number of damaged and
undamaged grains and the number of live and dead insects.
The study is on-going and will be repeated.
Subjects
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