Maize Genomics and Genetics 2025, Vol.16, No.1, 10-19 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/mgg 17 7.3 Policy implications Policymakers should support the promotion and research of superior maize lines to enhance agricultural productivity and food security. Investing in breeding programs that focus on developing stress-resistant maize varieties can mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on agriculture. For instance, supporting research initiatives that identify and utilize drought and heat-tolerant inbred lines can lead to the development of hybrids that maintain high yields under extreme weather conditions, thereby ensuring food security (Chen et al., 2012). Additionally, policies that encourage the adoption of maize hybrids with combined stress resistance can significantly benefit farmers in stress-prone regions. By promoting the use of hybrids that are tolerant to both drought and Striga infestation, policymakers can help improve crop resilience and productivity. This approach not only supports sustainable agriculture but also enhances the livelihoods of farmers by reducing crop losses and increasing yields (Menkir et al., 2020). 8 Concluding Remarks The case study successfully identified several superior fresh-eating maize lines with enhanced quality and stress resistance. Notably, lines such as L6 and L7 demonstrated positive general combining ability (GCA) effects for grain yield (GY) and secondary traits under optimal and low nitrogen conditions, while L8 and L9 excelled under combined heat and drought stress conditions. Additionally, hybrids like L10/T7 and L9/T7 (Zn×normal), and L8/T6 and L11/T3 (Zn×QPM) were identified as superior, showcasing high GY and desirable secondary traits. The study also highlighted the importance of both additive and dominance gene effects in controlling these traits, suggesting a robust strategy for developing nutritionally enhanced maize genotypes. The identification of these superior maize lines has significant implications for the commercial production of fresh-eating maize. The enhanced stress resistance traits, particularly to drought and heat, are crucial for maintaining yield stability in the face of climate change. The development of hybrids with multiple disease resistance (MDR) will also contribute to increased maize production and productivity, especially in regions like sub-Saharan Africa where biotic stresses are prevalent. Furthermore, the integration of nutritional enhancements such as zinc, provitamin A, and quality protein maize (QPM) into these lines can address malnutrition issues, providing a dual benefit of improved yield and nutritional quality. Future research should focus on further testing of additional maize lines to expand the pool of superior genotypes. Evaluating these lines in diverse environments will be essential to ensure their adaptability and stability across different climatic conditions. Exploring the genetic basis of combined drought and heat stress tolerance, as distinct from individual stress tolerance, will be crucial for developing more resilient maize varieties. The use of advanced molecular characterization techniques and association mapping can also aid in identifying key genetic markers for stress resistance and nutritional traits, facilitating more targeted breeding efforts. On-farm trials and large-scale evaluations of the identified hybrids will be necessary to validate their performance and commercial viability. Acknowledgments I would like to thank Dr J. Wu’s continuous support throughout the development of this study. Conflict of Interest Disclosure The author affirms that this research was conducted without any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest. References Abu P., Badu-Apraku B., Ifie B., Tongoona P., Melomey L., and Offei S., 2021, Genetic diversity and inter-trait relationship of tropical extra-early maturing quality protein maize inbred lines under low soil nitrogen stress, PLoS One, 16(6): e0252506. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0252506 Azanza F., Bar-zur A., and Juvik, J., 2004, Variation in sweet corn kernel characteristics associated with stand establishment and eating quality, Euphytica, 87: 7-18. https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00022959
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