Development of maize (Zea mays) variety resistant to the maize stalk borer (Chilo partellus)

Abstract

The resistant present in Antigua Gr I and double cross 'Colombian hybrid H 207' was utilized as a source of resistance
to develop maize (Zea mays L.) resistant to the maize stalk borer (Chilo partellus Swinhoe). As the insect resistance in
maize is mainly under the influence of additive genes, the Population improvement procedure for breeding resistant maize
variety was adopted which is more efficient to capitalise on the additive genetic component. The resistant genes of
Antigua Gr I were super-imposed upon the resistant gene combination of'H 207'. Three cycles of half-sib and full-sib
were followed and in each cycle the progenies were subjected to artificial infestation by the egg masses (black-head stage)
of Chilo partellus. The progenies showing rating less than 5 on rating scale 1-9 were considered for further testing and
incorporation. In this process, a balanced medium maturity (90-95 days) composite of selected families was derived and
designated as entomological borer resistant (EBR) composite endowed with a good level of resistance and yield potential.