Initial evaluation of half-sib progenies of Norway spruce using the best linear unbiased prediction

Abstract

The present paper deals with data obtained from fifteen years old Norway spruce (<i>Picea abies</i> [L.] Karst.) progeny test established at three sites in the Sázava River region. Parameter under the evaluation was a tree height in 15 years following the establishment of the trial. Genetic parameters were estimated using the REML (Restricted Maximum Likelihood) procedure followed by the BLUP (Best Linear Unbiased Prediction). Genetic parameters estimates were used to predict genetic gain in three alternative selection strategies. The value of gain depends on target value of gene diversity. 10−15% gain is due to selecting breeding population composed of 50 individuals. Based on these quantitative findings, current and future research orientation is discussed.