The researchers studied different inbred lines of exotic maize to see how they combine and produce better yields. They made 60 crosses using 12 female and 5 male parents and tested them at four locations. Some inbred lines like ZL2116, ZL2436, and ZL8344 showed better potential for higher yields. They also found that certain crosses, like ZL8344×chang 7-2, had the highest effects on yield. The exotic maize population was divided into different heterotic groups, with specific patterns like PF6J155×Ludahonggu showing the most promise for better yields.