DArTtag sequence for 376 early yellow and orange maize inbreds

Early maturing maize has become an important staple crop in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and has expanded rapidly across diverse agroecologies. Genetic diversity is crucial for developing improved maize varieties. This study examined the genetic diversity and population structure of elite early maturing yellow and orange maize inbred lines for exploitation heterosis in the production of hybrid maize with improved nutritional contents. The findings from the study will lay the groundwork for developing improved early-maturing maize hybrids with enhanced stress tolerance and nutritional value. By capitalizing on the identified genetic diversity, breeders could develop cultivars better adapted to SSA conditions, which would ultimately contribute to food security and poverty alleviation.