Combining ability and heterotic grouping of turcicum‐resistant early‐maturing maize inbreds

Maize (Zea mays L.), an important source of calories and nutrients in sub‐Saharan Africa, is threatened by northern corn leaf blight (NCLB) caused by Exserohilum turcicum. This study examined combining ability and heterotic patterns of early‐maturing maize inbreds, gene action conditioning NCLB resistance, and performance of derived hybrids across environments and identified testers. Fifteen each of white and yellow inbreds were intercrossed using North Carolina Design II to obtain 75 hybrids per endosperm color. Hybrids plus six checks were inoculated with a virulent isolate of E. turcicum 4 wk after planting in six inoculated and three non‐inoculated environments in Nigeria in 2018 and 2019. Inbreds were assigned to heterotic groups using general combining ability (GCA) of multiple traits method. Specific combining ability (SCA), GCA, and genotype × environment (G × E) interactions were significant for grain yield (GYLD), disease severity, and other traits. Northern corn leaf blight caused 46% GYLD reduction. The effects of GCA were preponderant over SCA for GYLD and NCLB severity across environments, indicating that hybridization and recurrent selection would enhance genetic gains and hybrid performance. White and yellow inbreds were placed in two and three heterotic groups, respectively. High‐yielding NCLB‐resistant testers identified could be used to classify other inbreds yet to be field‐tested into heterotic groups. Genotypes TZEI 32 × TZEI 5 and TZEI 124 × TZEI 134 were identified as single‐cross testers. Genotypes TZEI 32 × TZEI 5 and TZEI 5 × TZEI 75 (white) and TZEI 124 × TZEI 134 and TZEI 124 × TZEI 11 (yellow) were identified for on‐farm testing and possible commercialization. Core Ideas Gene action for grain yield and turcicum resistance was predominantly additive in early‐maturing (EM) inbreds. Three heterotic groups identified for planned hybrid crosses involving EM inbreds. Inbred and single‐cross testers identified for grouping and testing for turcicum resistance. Identified testers should be used to classify EM inbreds that are yet to be field‐tested. Ten high‐yielding and stable hybrids with turcicum resistance identified for commercialization.