Study of quality parameters among quality protein (QPM) and normal maize inbreds

The present investigation was undertaken to identify the high kernel protein and tryptophan content lines among forty maize inbred lines for utilization in the breeding programme. Analysis of variance revealed significant genetic variation for both protein and tryptophan contents among these inbreds with mean protein and tryptophan content ranging from 7.83-10.67 per cent and 0.38-1.02 per cent, respectively. Among all inbreds, QPM line CML163 showed highest protein content (10.67 %) whereas, two QPM lines CML163 and CML189 showed highest tryptophan content (1.02 %). Thus the inbreds possessing high protein and tryptophan content in maize kernels can be effectively utilized as potential donors in the future breeding programmes for improving the biological value of normal maize inbreds.