In this article we will discuss about:- 1. Definition of Progeny Selection 2. Main Features of Progeny Selection 3. Merits and Demerits.
Definition of Progeny Selection:
Progeny selection is defined as follows:
1. A selection procedure in which superior plants are selected from a heterogeneous population on the basis of the performance of their progeny is referred to as progeny selection.
2. Selection of plants from a diverse population on the basis of their progeny test is called progeny selection.
The genetic worth of an individual is assessed by progeny test. The test of the genotypic value of an individual based on the performance of its progeny is called progeny test. The progeny test was developed by Louis de Vilmorin, hence it is also known as Vilmorin principle.
The progeny test is useful in two ways, viz.:
(i) In understanding whether a plant is true breeding (homozygous) or segregating (heterozygous) for a particular character, and
(ii) In the assessment of the breeding value of a plant. If the selected plant is really superior, its progeny will also exhibit superior performance and vice versa.
Main Features of Progeny Selection:
Main features of progeny selection are given below:
1. Application:
Progeny selection is commonly used in cross pollinated and often cross pollinated species.
2. Base Material:
In cross pollinated species, three types of materials, viz.:
(i) Open pollinated seeds,
(ii) Self seeds, and
(iii) Top cross or test cross seeds of selected plants can be used in producing the progenies for testing. Generally, 10-50 seeds of each selected plant are grown for progeny testing.
3. Basis of Selection:
In this method, selection of superior plants is based on the progeny performance (genotype).Those plants whose progeny performance is superior for the character under consideration are bulked together to produce the next generation.
4. Conduct of Progeny Test:
Progeny test should be conducted in replicated trial to get more reliable results. The multi-locational or multi-seasonal test is considered ideal for progeny testing. Finally, plants whose progeny performance is good are selected and rests are discarded.
5. Genetic Constitution:
A variety developed by progeny selection is heterogeneous, because it consists of several homo and heterozygous genotypes.
6. Adaptation:
A variety developed by progeny selection has wide adaptation and is more stable against environmental changes due to heterogeneity which provides better buffering capacity.
7. Variation:
They are composed of several homo and heterozygous genotypes. Hence there is heritable variation in the varieties developed by progeny selection. The heritable variation provides them good buffering capacity.
8. Selection:
Further selection in a variety developed by progeny selection may lead to inbreeding depression.
9. Quality:
A variety developed by progeny selection is less uniform in the quality of seed than pure lines due to presence of heritable variation.
10. Resistance:
A variety developed by progeny selection is less prone to the attack of new diseases due to genetic diversity.
11. Example:
The ear to row selection which is used in maize is a simple form of progeny selection.
Merits and Demerits of Progeny Selection:
Merits:
(i) Selection is based on progeny performance which is a reliable technique.
(ii) This method is very simple and convenient.
Demerits:
(i) The main demerit of progeny selection is that there is no control on the pollination. The plants of superior progeny are also pollinated by the plants of inferior progenies.
(ii) If the progeny of each plant is tested in isolation, it would require lot of area which is not practically possible.
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