Biomass partitioning and nutrient uptake in various maize genotypes in the northern region of Manabí province, Ecuador

Corn (Zea mays L.) is one of the most important economic and food crops in Ecuador. In this context, evaluating the physiological performance of different commercial genotypes is essential to optimize productivity and resource use efficiency. The aim of this research was to analyze the biomass partitioning and macronutrient (N, P, K, Ca, Mg) absorption in four maize hybrids (ATL 400, TRUENO, INIAP H 551, and UTEQ) grown in the Boyacá parish, Chone canton, Manabí province, during the 2019 agricultural cycle. A completely randomized block design with four treatments and four repetitions was used. Destructive sampling was conducted at 20, 40, 60, 80, 100, and 120 days after emergence (DAE), separating leaves, stems, and ears to determine dry biomass and nutrient content. Although no statistically significant differences were detected, the TRUENO hybrid showed the highest total biomass accumulation (1.560 kg DM·m⁻² at 120 DAE), as well as less depletion in vegetative organs. Leaves were the main organs demanding N and K, while phosphorus (P) exhibited a more significant absorption during grain filling. This study suggests that the TRUENO hybrid presents favorable physiological characteristics that could be utilized to improve crop yield. Its evaluation in other agroecological environments along the Ecuadorian coast is recommended to validate its adaptability and nutritional performance.