Melhoramento genético do milho

Abstract

Aiming to evaluate the progress obtained by the genetic improvement of maize, scientific data and the literature published until the moment were analyzed, on the grain productivity of the cultivars existing in the market of this plant. The greatest contribution of genetic improvement was the increase in productivity, without a doubt, one of the most expressive contributions, since the development and use of hybrid corn provided, in a short period, an excellent yield. This knowledge allowed breeding programs to introduce new characteristics to corn, such as resistance to diseases and pests, greater protection of the grains through better mulching, greater response to management practices, better nutritional quality and less plant tipping and breaking. Today, along with soy, corn is essential for the manufacture of feed for poultry, swine, sheep and other animals. Thus, the use of improved cultivars is the technology with the best result for the producer, and therefore, the one that is easiest to adopt and which provides short-term economic returns.