Cytoplasmic Male Sterility (CMS) in Maize: A Review Highlighting Its Role in Hybrid Fodder Production and Livestock/Veterinary Feeding Programs

Dhone P.U.

doi:10.69980/redvet.v25i1.2252

Dhone P.U.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.69980/redvet.v25i1.2252

Keywords: ...............

Abstract

Cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) is a maternally inherited condition that suppresses pollen formation and serves as a cornerstone for hybrid seed production in maize (Zea mays L.). Maize remains the most widely studied CMS model due to its diverse T-, C-, and S-cytoplasms, each associated with chimeric mitochondrial ORFs and restored by nuclear restorer-of-fertility (Rf) genes encoding PPR proteins. While CMS has transformed hybrid seed production for grain and silage maize, its relevance has expanded significantly into the fodder and veterinary nutrition sector, where uniform, high-biomass and highly digestible fodder is essential for livestock productivity.

CMS-derived maize hybrids produce superior green fodder and silage because of high soluble carbohydrate content, uniform flowering, improved biomass accumulation, and ideal forage quality traits. These attributes directly enhance rumen fermentation, dry matter intake, milk yield, and metabolic efficiency in dairy cattle, buffalo, sheep, and goats. Knowledge generated from maize CMS also provides a reference framework for CMS applications in related fodder crops such as sorghum (A1/A2/A3 CMS) and pearl millet (A1 CMS), which further support veterinary feeding programs in arid regions.

This review highlights the molecular basis of CMS in maize, compares CMS systems across other cereals, and emphasizes the increasing significance of CMS-based hybrids in fodder production and veterinary animal nutrition.

Author Biography

Dhone P.U.

Assistant Professor at MG college of agriculture Biotechnology, Pokharni, Nanded affiliated to the University Vasantrao Naik Marathawada Agriculture University Parbhani- 431511

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