Maize Genomics and Genetics 2025, Vol.16, No.1, 45-59 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/mgg 45 Research Insight Open Access Insights into the Phenotypic and Genotypic Diversity of Fresh-Eating Maize Germplasm Shanjun Zhu, Wei Wang Institute of Life Sciences, Jiyang College of Zhejiang A&F University, Zhuji, 311800, Zhejiang, China Corresponding email: tinawei0806@qq.com Maize Genomics and Genetics, 2025, Vol.16, No.1 doi: 10.5376/mgg.2025.16.0005 Received: 20 Dec., 2024 Accepted: 10 Feb., 2025 Published: 25 Feb., 2025 Copyright © 2025 Zhu and Wang., This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Zhu S.J., and Wang W., 2025, Insights into the phenotypic and genotypic diversity of fresh-eating maize germplasm, Maize Genomics and Genetics, 16(1): 45-59 (doi: 10.5376/mgg.2025.16.0005) Abstract This study comprehensively explored the phenotypic and genotypic diversity of fresh-table maize germplasm, highlighting the importance of this diversity for breeding programs. Phenotypic assessments, such as principal component analysis (PCA) and GT biplot analysis, revealed significant variation in key traits such as grain weight, plant height, and nitrogen use efficiency, which are essential for improving yield in different environments. Meanwhile, molecular characterization using SNP markers further elucidated the genetic diversity in maize breeding germplasm and found clear distinctions between temperate and tropical/subtropical lines, as well as unique alleles that can be used for breeding. This study also introduces the latest advances in combining genotypic and phenotypic data to help identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) to improve breeding efficiency. Despite some progress, there is still underutilized genetic diversity in current breeding programs. This study emphasizes that continued research in phenotypic and genotypic characterization, combined with advanced breeding technologies, is essential for sustainable improvement of the global maize crop. Keywords Fresh-eating maize; Phenotypic diversity; Genotypic diversity; Hybrid breeding; Genomic selection 1 Introduction When it comes to corn, the first thing that comes to mind is the common feed corn, but in fact, fresh corn (also known as sweet corn) is a regular on the daily table. This kind of corn can be seen all over the world. Whether it is cooked directly or made into canned or frozen food, it is very popular. But what's interesting is that although it is a staple food in many places, the way it is eaten in different regions varies greatly. Farmers especially like to grow this because they can make money - whether it is in the local market or exported, it sells well (Hansey et al., 2012; Jin et al., 2012; Hufford et al., 2021). Of course, in addition to making money, it is also very important to ensure food security. Don't think that there is everything in the supermarket now. If you really encounter some special circumstances, crops like fresh corn that can be eaten fresh and processed and preserved will play a prominent role. Corn varieties vary widely, from taller to larger ears to different kernel compositions-and these visible differences, or phenotypic diversity, are particularly useful to breeders. After all, these traits are important for improving yields, enhancing disease resistance, or adapting corn to different climates (Yang et al., 2011; Mhoswa et al., 2016). But the real fun is at the genetic level. The DNA of different corn varieties can vary even more, from gene content to methylation patterns (Hufford et al., 2021; Shu et al., 2021). Although some varieties look similar, they can have completely different genotypes. This kind of diversity is no small matter, especially as climate change becomes increasingly apparent. Researchers have found that it is these genetic differences that can help us breed varieties that are more tolerant to drought and disease (Flint-Garcia et al., 2009; Jin et al., 2012). To put it bluntly, the future adaptability of corn may lie in its genetic diversity. When it comes to corn for fresh consumption, you may not realize how different varieties of corn can be. Some corn cobs are extra sweet, while others are more durable in storage. Behind these visible differences, there are actually complex genetic secrets. Our study aims to find out two things: which genes control these important traits, and how environmental changes will affect corn performance. Interestingly, although genomic technology is very
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