Multivariate Analysis of Root Architecture, Morpho-Physiological, and Biochemical Traits Reveals Higher Nitrogen Use Efficiency Heterosis in Maize Hybrids During Early Vegetative Growth.

ABSTRACT: Maize (Zea mays L.) is a globally significant crop with high economic and nutritional importance. Its productivity, however, relies heavily on nitrogen (N) inputs, often resulting in low nitrogen use efficiency (NUE). Enhancing NUE necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the biochemical and physiological mechanisms driving N uptake and utilization. The study evaluated the NUE heterosis of 7 inbred lines and their 12 hybrids under low and high N conditions during early vegetative growth. Significant genotypic variations across traits were analyzed using analysis of variance, principal component analysis, correlation, regression, and structural equation modeling. The key contributors to genetic variation included shoot dry weight, N accumulation, and NUE. Hybrids demonstrated en

SUBMITTER: Jan MF 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11821247 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature