Genetic gain via REML/BLUP and selection indices in snap bean

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to compare four selection indexes and REML/BLUP methodology in the evaluation of predicted genetic gains of traits of interest in snap bean breeding program. We evaluated 17 selected lines, in a randomized complete block design, with four replicates, in four environments, Bom Jesus de Itapaboana-RJ, in 2011 and 2012 and Cambuci-RJ, in 2011 and 2013. The evaluated traits were pod and grain productivity, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod and weight of 100 seeds. For gain prediction, the employed selection indexes were Pesek & Baker, Smith & Hazel, Mulamba & Mock, Williams and REML/BLUP methodology. Among the tested selection indexes, Mulamba & Mock was the one which showed the best gain distribution considering the tested variables, such as the higher coincidence coefficients in comparison to REML/BLUP, resulting in 62% of grain productivity and pod productivity per plant. The REML/BLUP methodology permitted to select lines with high relative performances and obtained simultaneous gains for the evaluated traits, being superior in relation to the tested selection indexes for snap bean crop.