Growth and yield of Striga-tolerant maize genotypes under Maize streak virus infection in Minna, Northern Nigeria

Abstract

Striga infestation and Maize streak virus (MSV) disease constitute serious limitations to maize productivity in sub-Saharan Africa. Adoption of resistant maize varieties remains the most effective and sustainable control measure against both biotic stresses. Thirteen maize genotypes with differential Striga resistance background were evaluated against MSV infection in Minna, Nigeria during the 2017 wet season. Maize seeds were planted in July 2017 and seedlings were observed for MSV disease incidence, disease severity, growth and yield characters. The data were subjected to cluster and analysis of variance. The lowest (20 %) incidence of MSV disease was found in “9022-13”. The genotypes “(2*TZECOMP3DT/WhiteDTSTRSYN) C2”, “(TZEOMPC7/TZECOMP3DTC2) C2” and “9022-13” exhibited the lowest disease severity (symptom score = 2.0). Cob (92.3 g) and grain (70.7 g) weights per plant were highest in “SAMMAZ-15”. The Striga-tolerant maize genotype “SAMMAZ 15” was the best for cob and grain weight under MSV infection and “(TZEOMPC7/TZECOMP3DTC2) C2” was identified as the most genetically related to “SAMMAZ 15”. Therefore, both genotypes are recommended for cultivation in areas that are prone to Striga and MSV disease.