Optimum number of crosses and progeny per cross in breeding self-fertilizing crops. I. General approach and first numerical results

Abstract

Based on maximization of selection response, Pesek (1986) proposed methodology for determining the optimum number of crosses and progeny per cross in breeding self-fertilizing crops. By this method the total selection response is obtained by adding the individual responses from the two steps of selection: selection between crosses and selection within crosses. In this paper, Pesek's approach has been generalized for finite or nonnormal populations. Optimum numbers of crosses are determined by testing capacity, number of selected crosses, number of selected lines from each selected cross, and heritability.