JABS Journal
Basic Sciences — Botany (Plant Biology, Plant Ecology, Plant Systematics) Peer Reviewed Open Access

Genetic Variation in Maize Germplasm Revealed by Morphological and Yield-Related Traits

Bissam Rasool Fizza Iftikhar
Corresponding author: Bissam Rasool · bissamrasool7@gmail.com
October
Issue
02 Oct 2026
Published
—
Pages

Abstract

Genetic variation for plant architecture and yield components is essential for maize (Zea mays L.) improvement. This study assessed variation among 20 maize genotypes at the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, during spring 2023, using a randomized complete block design with three replications. Ten traits were recorded: plant height, ear height, stem diameter, internodal length, cob length, rows per cob, seeds per row, 100-grain weight, cob diameter, and pith diameter. Data were analyzed by ANOVA, means were separated with Tukey's HSD test, and Pearson correlations were calculated among traits. Genotypes differed significantly (P < 0.01) for all traits. Stem diameter was strongly and positively correlated with plant height (r = 0.7664) and ear height (r = 0.6969), while 100-grain weight showed only weak positive correlations with cob length (r = 0.1559) and seeds per row (r = 0.0848). Genotype 2014 Sib had the highest plant height, ear height, and stem diameter. Genotype 113 had the highest 100-grain weight, cob diameter, and pith diameter. PBG3 (X) had the longest internodes, 6160 (X) the longest cobs, 110 the most rows per cob, and 129 the most seeds per row. Genotype 113 is a good option where high grain weight and large cobs are wanted, and 2014 Sib is a good option where tall plants with thick stems are needed. These results come from a single season, so they should be confirmed across more environments.

maize germplasm genetic variation morphological traits yield-related traits correlation 100-grain weight.

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Article Information
Subject AreaBasic Sciences — Botany (Plant Biology, Plant Ecology, Plant Systematics)
Volume / IssueVol. 42, No. 4
Published02 Oct 2026
How to Cite
Bissam Rasool & Fizza Iftikhar. (2026). Genetic Variation in Maize Germplasm Revealed by Morphological and Yield-Related Traits. JABS, 42(4).
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