Search for multiple resistance in maize to stem borers under natural infestation in midaltitude intermediate maturity areas in Kenya
1997
Gethi, M.
The search for multiple borer resistance in maize, mainly against Chilo partellus (Swinhoe) and Busseola fusca (Fuller), requires routine screening of a large number of germplasm sources. In the present investigation, the search for multiple borer resistance involved evaluation of inbreds, (local and exotic) synthetics, open pollinated materials and hybrids. The parameters that were used for evaluation were based on infestation level (larval and pupal density) and damage levels (foliar damage, stalk tunneling, borer exit/ entry holes). Preliminary results indicated significant (P=0.05) differences between cultivars/lines in the parameters that were used for evaluation. There was a positive and significant (P=0.05) relationship between foliar damage and tunnel length. As evaluations were done under natural infestation, results on yields as a measure of resistance were not considered. From the data presented, it can be concluded that some parameters, like foliar damage and tunnel length, may be used as possible selection characters in resistance breeding. However, controlled uniform artificial infestation is required to obtain consistent results.
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