Morphological and agronomic evaluation of short-cycle native maize varieties (Zea mays L.)

Resumen

Objective: The objective of this study was to analyze the morphological composition and agronomic behavior of five varieties of Zea mays L. Two Zapalote Chico, two Zapalote Grande and an improved variety (V-424) which are characterized by having a short vegetative cycle

Desing/methodology/approach: The maize varieties evaluated were sourced from various locations within the municipality, with explicit consent from the producers, who provided the seeds for the study. Four native cultivars (treatments) were selected from the Zapalote Chico and Zapalote Grande races and one improved and open-pollinated maize variety (V-424 or Tuxpeño Precoz) as a control, released by INIFAP. The local farmers assigned the common names to the evaluated maize varieties, except for V-424. The varieties were distributed in a randomized block design with four replications, resulting in a total of 20 experimental units. Each unit consisted of four furrows, each measuring 4 meters in length.

Results: The findings of this study on native short-cycle maize varieties in Chiapas have significant implications at the genetic, social, cultural, economic, and environmental levels. Each of these aspects provides crucial guidance for decision-making related to the utilization, management, and conservation of local maize varieties. A key outcome of this study is the recognition of native maize as a repository of essential genes for food security in rural areas. Short-cycle landraces exhibit unique genetic adaptations that enable them to thrive under the specific agroclimatic conditions of the Frailesca region in Chiapas.

Limitations on study/implications: none

Findings/conclusions: The native maize varieties exhibited significant genetic variability across the variables under consideration. The Zapalote Chico race is characterized by its favourable characteristics, as recognized by farmers, including early maturity, drought resistance, lodging resistance, and resistance to the fall armyworm. These qualities make it a promising candidate for future research and for inclusion in genetic improvement programs, whether conventional or participatory. It is crucial to continue promoting agroecological inputs with the goal of fostering the development of resilient agroecosystems and, consequently, enhancing the well-being of farmers and the conservation of native maize reservoirs.