Breeding value based on the number of grains in the main ear of soft winter wheat varieties in 2021-2023.

The results of a comparative analysis of the breeding value of winter wheat varieties of different ecotypes (forest-steppe, steppe, and Western European) based on the number of grains per main spike are presented. The research was conducted during 2021–2023. It was established that the highest mean grain number over the three-year period was formed by the Western European ecotype varieties Acratos (50.9 grains) and Fidelius (50.1 grains). Among the forest-steppe ecotype varieties, Zorepad Bilotserkivskyi (47.8 grains) was distinguished. Analysis of variation limits (min–max) and the breeding value index (Sc) allowed for the identification of the most stable genotypes. A high Sc value was recorded in the variety Fidelius (45.9), indicating its considerable potential for application in breeding programs aimed at enhancing spike productivity. Breeding value (Sc) was calculated according to V. V. Khangildyn and M. A. Lytvynenko (1981): Sc = X × (Xlim / Xopt), where: Sc – breeding value; X – the mean value of the studied trait; Xlim – the minimum value of the trait; Xopt – the maximum value of the trait