CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE STUDY OF DIVERSITY OF CORN FROM THE HIGH PARTS OF MEXICO

Abstract

This work was initiated with the purpose of studying the diversity of maize (Zea mays L.) in México, in particular, variation of rnaize populations from high altitude -above 1850 m- of central and north-central México, and to have a better knowledge on rnaize races and their relationships. In 1975, ears of 2000 collections were observed; 35 of them were considered representative of the whole set,
which were planted at Chapingo, Méx. for description in 1978. Numerical taxonomy was used for data analysis. In general_. grouping of populations in races and racial complexes (racial groups) agreed with previous studies. Typical collections were defined for the following races: Palomero Toluqueño, Cacahua-cintle, Cónico, Cónico Norteño, Chalqueño, Bolita, Arrocillo Amarillo, Apachito and Palomero de Chihuahua. Samples of Cristalino de Chihuahua, Gordo and Azul were very closely associated suggesting that
they may represent the same basic germplasm. Three racial groups can be defined: one from Alta Babícora, Chih., the second from Cacahuacintle and Elotes Cónicos, and the third group with the remaining races.