In maize hybrid development, it is essential to know the parent’s performance per se
in different environments as well as the genetic base in populations in order to facilitate selection
of superior lines. The objective of this work was to estimate the genetic variance and heritability
while assessing agronomic behavior in 237 maize fodder lines featuring different inbred levels
and origin in two different locations. Traits such as plant height, cob height, stem diameter, and
fodder yield were taken. A combined variance analysis was carried out using this information.
The variable mean squares showing significant differences were used to estimate the genetic
variance components. Significant differences were observed (p ≤ 0.01) for the line variation
source and location × line interaction in all assessed characteristics. The genetic parameter
estimation provided information on the existing genetic variance and heritability among the
population which is important for the progress of the selection process. Lines CLWN701,
CLWN345, CML476, CML216, CLWQ232, and CML 528 measured 74.8, 72.2, 67.7, 65.8, 63.8
and 62.5 t ha-1
, respectively showed the highest yield potential for green fodder
