This work was carried out with the objective of evaluating inter and intrapopulation maize hybrids from S0 progenies of commercial single cross hybrids. Three S0 populations from single cross hybrids (P30F45, Dow657 and DKB333B) were used, and 163 hybrids (110 inter and 53 intrapopulational crosses) were obtained. Hybrids were evaluated in Lavras and Lambari (MG), Brazil in relation to the grain yield, using the commercial hybrids and their S0 as checks in two replicate lattice design (13 x 13). Data were submitted to individual and combined ANOVA. Genotypic and phenotypic parameters were estimated from expected mean squares. Inbreeding depression in the commercial hybrids were estimated. Some interpopulational hybrids outyielded both commercial hybrids they originated from and their S0 used as checks, in the two locations. However, yields of all intrapopulation hybrids were lower than the hybrid checks, probably due to the lower number of intrapopulational hybrids (53) as compared to interpopulation hybrids (110). Intrapopulation hybrids of high productivity with average yield of 10 t ha-1 were identified, this demonstrating the possibility of obtaining high yielding hybrids from S0 populations of single cross hybrids. Single cross hybrids are an excellent alternative for developing inbreds, provide it is possible to obtain superior hybrids from early inbreeding generations.
Zea mays; inbred; grain yield
