Selection Index and Genetic Parameters in Tropical Popcorn Hybrids

The negative correlation between grain yield and popping expansion is an issue to obtain popcorn varieties. Simultaneous selection applying trait index selection is an efficient method to reach a maximum of combined genetic gain, and it is an alternative to aggregate interesting market trait in new popcorn varieties. This study aimed to evaluate intercharacter genetic parameters and to identify improved topcrosses hybrids of popcorn for grain yield, popping expansion, and weight of 100 grains, also to identify superior genotypes with multi-trait index selection. The experiments were sowed in two locals, where 144 hybrids of crosses of lines originated from the IA8383 population with IAC 12 and 144 hybrids of crosses of lines originated from IA8383 population with IA9614, sum 288 topcrosses hybrids, in RCBD. The mixed model equation was carried out to estimate BLUPs and perform the multi-trait index. The selection gains considering the multi-trait index reached 6.45%, 1.65%, and 2.4% respectively. Promising lines were selected to increase the tropical popcorn breeding program with the target in high yield and popping expansion.