Comprehensive Evaluation and Selection of 192 Maize Accessions from Different Sources

Abstract

In the period 2022–2023, an analysis of fourteen phenotypic traits was conducted across 192 maize accessions in the Aral region of Xinjiang. The Shannon–Wiener diversity index was employed to quantify the phenotypic diversity among the accessions. Subsequently, a comprehensive evaluation of the index was performed utilizing correlation analysis, principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis. The results highlighted significant findings: (1) A pronounced diversity was evident across the 192 maize accessions, accompanied by complex interrelationships among the traits. (2) The 14 phenotypic traits were transformed into 3 independent indicators through principal component analysis: spike factor, leaf width factor, and number of spikes per plant. (3) The 192 materials were divided into three groups using cluster analysis. The phenotypes in Group III exhibited the best performance, followed by those in Group I, and finally Group II. The selection of the three groups can vary depending on the breeding objectives. This study analysed the diversity of phenotypic traits in maize germplasm resources. Maize germplasm was categorised based on similar phenotypes. These findings provide theoretical insights for the study of maize accessions under analogous climatic conditions in Alar City, which lay the groundwork for the efficient utilization of existing germplasm as well as the development and selection of new varieties.