M. Ilchovska

Abstract. The General Combining Ability (GCA) and the Specific Combining Ability (SCA) of 8 mutant maize lines for the trait number of rows in the ear is evaluated in a top cross scheme by Savchenko’s mathematic model (1978).The received hybrid combinations are tested in field trials in 2005 and 2008. For the investigated mutant lines with a high GCA for the trait number of rows in the ear are ХМ 2001 134, ХМ 2001 1118 and ХМ 2001 103, which can be successfully used as donors for establishing of synthetics with higher number of rows in the ear. With high SCA for the analyzed trait within the first year are mutant lines ХМ 2001 116 and ХМ 2001 602 and within the second one – ХМ 2001 134 and ХМ 2001 81. Maize line ХМ 2001 134 has both comparatively high SCA and GCA which makes it appropriate to be included in separate directions of the selection process, related to the trait number of rows in the ear