In southern Brazil, corn could be an alternative for cultivation in flooded areas. However, the development of genotypes tolerant to flooding is fundamental to make this option economically feasible. The objective of this paper was to determine the general and specific combining ability and reciprocal effect for flooding tolerance in corn genotypes. The analysis was based on a diallel cross among four inbreds: two flooding tolerant (CT954280 and CT954330) and two sensitive inbreds (CT966200 and CT966208). The experiment was conducted in 2000 and 2001 under greenhouse conditions at Embrapa Clima Temperado, Pelotas, RS. Root dry matter, plant dry matter, plant high, root length, and leaf chlorophyll content were measured. Genetic variability among the inbreds was detected. Both additive and non-additive effects were important in the determination of the inheritance of flooding tolerance in corn. The correct choice of the female parent is fundamental for tolerant hybrids production, since maternal effects were relevant. Among the analyzed genotypes, the inbred CT954330 presented the highest GCA and may be indicated as a preferential progenitor in crossings that aim to increase flooding tolerance.
diallel analysis; anoxia; Zea mays
