Identification Of Maize (Zea Mays L.) Genotypes Resistant To Striga Hermonthica (Del.) And Determination Of Genetic Basis For Resistance

ABSTRACT

The obligate root hemi-parasite, Striga hermonthica (Del.) Benth., native to sub-Saharan Africa causes serious economic constraint to cereal production. There has been limited study to understand the genetics of Striga tolerance or resistance in maize in Kenya and the information on mechanisms of resistance to Striga in maize in very limited. T he use of maize ( Zea mays L.)

genotypes that support reduced Striga hermonthica emergence can form an important basis for

developing Striga resistant cultivars. The objective of this study was to contribute to the

knowledge of gene action controlling Strig a resistance and to improved yield in maize. 28

maize inbred lines sourced from IITA and Maseno University and 9 Maseno university

experimental hybrids were evaluated in western Kenya in 2011 and 2012 growing seasons. A

generation means analysis was perf ormed using a resistant and a highly susceptible maize inbred

line selected from inbred line screening. Highly significant differences (P