Combining ability analysis for yield and its components in popcorn ( Zea mays var. everta Sturt.)

A line x tester set was obtained by crossing 8 lines with 3 testers in popcorn. The resultant 24 derived F1s were evaluated along with 11 parents to estimate general and specific combining ability variances and effects for 14 characters. The results showed predominant role of non-additive gene action for all the characters studied. Based on both per se and gca, the genotypes UPC 5, UPC 4, UPC 1 among lines and Amber popcorn, Bangalore popcorn among the testers were proved as good general combiners for yield and quality traits. High per se, significant sca, standard heterosis exhibited by three hybrids viz., UPC 9 x Amber popcorn, UPC 8 x Amber popcorn and UPC 1 x UPC 6 could be used for exploitation of heterosis for yield and quality characters.