Variability for maysin content in maize germplasm developed for insect resistance
1997
Welcker, C. | Febvay, G. | Clavel, D. (INRA, (Guyana). Centre Antilles-Guyane)
First described in the Mexican maize landrace Zapalote chico, the flavone maysin has been identified as a potent factor in antibiosis to corn earworm Helicoverpa zea (Boddie). This study was conducted to determine maysin content in 20 inbreds and populations of maize which were being developed for resistance to insects. This genetic material and checks were evaluated in the field for corn earworm injury and leaf feeding damage by larvae of fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith). Maysin levels in silks and young leaves were measured using HPLC. Maysin levels in silks ranged from 0 to 4 mg/g of fresh weight. The main part of the studied material contained maysin below 1.5 mg/g, the concentration considered to be necessary for resistance based on larval toxicity. Several populations reach the resistance level of Zapalote chico, but a few other populations also possess minor levels of the substance. Among other things, maysin level can be used as a selection criterion to increase the diversity of resistance mechanisms in source germplasm.
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