Abstract: [Objective] To clarify the comprehensive performances of quality traits of different silage maize varieties, and to discovery the excellent gene sources of silage maizes. [Method] The correlation analysis of 26 quality traits of 8 silage maize varieties was performed. [Result] These tested traits could be divided into two categories, including nutritional value indicators and morphogenetic factors. The coordination and unification of these two types of traits were the most basic scales for selective breeding of high-quality silage maize varieties. The variety of LY19 had obvious advantages in morphogenetic traits, while the variety of 16X259 had outstanding predominance in nutritional value traits. [Conclusion] The variety of 16X259 reaches a good balance between nutritional values and morphogenetic traits, and has potential to serve as a high-quality variety for silage preparation; nutritive values and morphologic traits can be used as dominant gene sources for innovation and utilization.

Key words: silage maize, quality traits, morphogenesis