Physiological analysis of dry matter distribution in six yellow maize genotypes under central coast conditions of Peru

Luis-Olivas D.B.; Fardim-Christo B.; Mendoza-Nieto E.; Sánchez-Calle M.T.; Palomares-Anselmo E.; Contreras-Liza S.E. · Idesia (2025) · DOI: 10.4067/0718-3429-idesia-2025-43-e15

Resumen

The objective of this research was to analyze the final dry matter distribution in six genotypes of yellow dent corn (Zea mays L.) grown under soil and climatic conditions of the central coast of Peru, and to determine its relationship with grain yield. A randomized complete block experimental design was carried out using six genotypes (ARG 8700 T, Dekalb 7088, Chuska -INIA 617, Draco 212, SV 3243 and Marginal 28T) with four replications each, and the dry biomass accumulated in seven plant organs: leaf sheath, leaf lamina, bracts, stem, root, grain coronta, was quantified, establishing its relationship with grain yield. The results showed significant differences between genotypes, highlighting the triple hybrid Draco 212 and the single hybrid ARG 8700 T for their high allocation to key reproductive and structural organs. Also, high variability in biomass allocation among maize genotypes was revealed, with stalk and bracts being the organs that showed a positive and significant correlation with grain weight (r = 0.48 and 0.45, respectively). In contrast, other plant structures, such as roots, leaf sheaths, and leaf laminae, did not show significant correlations with grain yield. These findings indicate that the development of structural organs that act as metabolic reservoirs can directly influence the productive efficiency of maize. It is concluded that the physiological efficiency of dry matter partitioning in plant organs is largely determined by maize genotype, with important implications for the selection of improved cultivars and agronomic management of the crop under the soil and climatic conditions of the central coast of Peru.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional José Faustino Sánchez Carrión