Prediction of genetic gains from selection in Arabica coffee progenies.

Abstract

Gains from selection for yield were estimated in Arabica coffee progenies carrying rust-resistance genes. Theexperiment in augmented block design was installed in Três Pontas, state of Minas Gerais. Three blocks were established with sixplants per plot, spaced 3.50 x 0.90 m, in 96 regular (F2 progenies) and two control treatments. The plant response to rust wasevaluated on a grade scale in 2008. Yield (bags per hectare) was estimated in the growing seasons 2005 to 2008. Significantdifferences between treatments for yield were observed in all harvests, except 2005. The presence of genetic variability amongprogenies allowed significant gain from selection for yield. Under the experimental conditions of this study, selection for yield can beperformed in the first high-yield year, without major losses compared to genetic gain from selection for yield when based on the meanof four harvests.

Keywords

• Coffea arabica
• genetic improvement
• bean yield
• rust resistance
• genetic progress.