Agronomic performance of transgenic and isogenic corn hybrids in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul1

Abstract

ABSTRACT Theoretically, isogenic hybrids should not present any differences in their genetic makeup due to recombinant DNA technology. However, these materials may behave differently in relation to adaptability and stability. This study aimed at evaluating the agronomic performance of transgenic corn and their isogenic hybrids in two locations in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Three isogenic simple hybrids and two transgenic varieties of each hybrid were evaluated. The first and second corn crop of 2013/14 were simultaneously analyzed in Dourados and Caarapó, two locations in the State of Mato Grosso do Sul, totaling four environments x season conditions that were evaluated.. A randomized complete block design with three replicates per location was used, and the treatments were arranged in a 3 × 3 factorial design (three genetically modified and three conventional hybrids), with three replicates per site. Characteristics such as plant height, ear height, male flowers, female flowers, and grain yield were evaluated. The parameters adaptability and stability were estimated using the Eberhart and Russell model. In all environments, transgenic hybrids showed higher average grain yield. Considering the environments, AG 7000, a conventional isogenic hybrid, obtained the highest average grain yield. The most stable and productive hybrids were DKB 390 VT PRO and AG 7000 YG, both transgenic. All assessed hybrids exhibited greater average plant height, ear height, and grain yield in Caarapó during the second corn crop, demonstrating that the environment at that site and time was more favorable.