Published online by Cambridge University Press: 03 October 2008
Analysis of a 4-parent diallel cross showed marked heterosis for yield and its components in two crosses (Mexipak × Dirk and C273 × AU49) under irrigation, while little or negative heterosis occurred under moisture stress. A large part of the genetic variation among crosses for yield, and most components of yield, was attributed to the general combining ability, indicating that the additive effects were important. Reciprocal effects and various interactions were insignificant except for kernel weight, which suggests that effective selection could be made under irrigation of genotypes adaptable to moisture stress.