Maize is the most important crop worldwide. Its increased productivity is mainly due to the widespread use of hybrids. They owe their superior qualities to heterosis, a process currently used by breeders in their efforts to improve the qualities of crop plants. Hybrids have almost completely replaced the use of inbred lines and local maize populations. However, the two categories remain an accessible reservoir of genetic diversity for the creation of new hybrids. In the present project proposal we aim to use SSR molecular markers to further the genetic evaluation of maize germplasm in SE Europe by investigating an additional 250 inbred lines. These are in addition to the 90 lines we have already investigated in our laboratory. Our approach is the first of its kind in SE Europe, with a comprehensive approach that includes genetic structure studies together with a morphological, physiological and biochemical description of the lines investigated. Due to their allelic richness, the lines already studied represent an important contribution to the current, steadily declining genome worldwide. The new 250 lines will be placed in heterotic groups structured around international standard lines. This will allow them to be used in cross-pollination schemes including with international germplasm. Targeted crosses will result in the production of hybrids with superior characteristics to those already existing.