Grain filling of R-nj color-selected maize strains divergently selected for kernel weight

Abstract

Grain-fill characteristics in maize (Zea mays L.) affect yield by changing kernel weight. The objective of this study was to learn how divergent tandem selection for R-nj color expression and kernel weight affected rate of dry matter accumulation (RDMA), effective grain-filling period (EFPD), and lag phase duration (LAGP). We studied development of apical, mid-ear, and basal kernels in two genetic backgrounds. We derived 12 maize strains by tandem selection within each of two early-maturing synthetics. Mass selection of synthetics NDSF and NDSD for four cycles for high (HC), random (RC), and low (LC) R-nj color expression produced six substrains. Then, four cycles of divergent mass selection for kernel weight within each color-derived substrain produced 12 substrains for study. Using the 12 strains, we conducted field experiments using a completely random experimental design within each of 2 yr at Fargo, ND. Sequential kernel samples of individual ears within each strain provided data to estimate RDMA, EFPD, LAGP, and five-kernel weight (KWT). We sampled at 3- to 4-d intervals during the linear phase of grain-filling and at maturity. Selection for HC increased RDMA but tended to decrease EFPD compared to LC strains in both NDSF and NDSD. Selecting heavier kernels increased KWT of basal and mid-ear kernels by increasing RDMA. Direct and correlated responses to R-nj color selection were evident after four subsequent cycles of divergent tandem selection for kernel weight. Therefore, R-nj expression was not a temporary maternal effect. Kernel weight selection responses differed among the color strains and synthetics. Kernel weight seemed mainly determined by RDMA that was affected by selection for R-nj color expression and for kernel mass. Key words:Zea mays L., aleurone color, mass selection, correlation, yield components