Genetic Analysis of the Resistance to Aspergillus flavus Infection in Maize (Zea mays L.)

Maize (Zea mays L.), one of main crops in the world, is easily susceptible to Aspergillus flavus (Link: fr) infection, resulting huge loses worldwide. Breeding for A. flavus resistance has been proved an efficient way to solve the problem of aflatoxin contamination. Genetic analysis of the sources of resistance to A. flavus in maize is necessary for this purpose. The complete diallel crosses of 6 inbred lines with different resistance to A. flavus infection were implemented. Inoculation categorical data of each cross were analyzed with the additive-dominant and additive-dominant-epitasis genetic models. Results indicated some crosses fitted the 2 major genes with additive-dominant-epitasis genetic model. Others fitted the major gene and polygene mixed model. Moreover, the additive, dominant, and epitasis effects varied in crosses. The A. flavus resistance was controlled by both major gene and polygene.