Compendium of recurrent selection methods and their application

Abstract

Recurrent selection is a breeding method that has been used for the genetic improvement of germplasm. Although recurrent selection methods were suggested over 40 years ago, there use has not been as extensive as the other classical plant breeding methods. Recurrent selection is used for the improvement of traits inherited in a quantitative manner, and the primary objective of the method is to gradually increase the frequency of favorable alíeles and maintain genetic variability for future selection. Different methods of recurrent selection have been suggested, depending on the types of gene action considered important in the inheritance of the traits under selection, relative efficiency of selection, and the complexity of the trait under selection. Most methods of recurrent selection include three phases conducted in a repetitive manner; development of progenies, evaluation of progenies in replicated trials, and recombination of the superior progenies based on the evaluation trials. Most information suggests that the recurrent selection methods are effective for the improvement of the traits under selection, but in most instances the recurrent selection methods have not been integrated with other breeding methods for the development of new cultivars. Recurrent selection methods will be most effective when they are integrated with the applied aspects of plant breeding.