The purpose of this study was to evaluate the performance potential of red bean lines, derived from populations of the first cycle of recurrent selection in the common bean breeding program of the Federal University of Viçosa, Minas Gerais. In the F3:5, F3:6 and F3:7 generations, 243 families from 18 segregating populations were evaluated. These families were conducted by the bulk-within-families method and from the best, 154 lines were obtained and evaluated in the dry season of 2006 (F7: 9) and of 2007 (F7: 10), Coimbra - MG. The estimates of genetic and phenotypic parameters revealed variability among families. The method bulk within F3-derived families proved useful for bean breeding. The most promising lines that may be included in future tests of value for cultivation and use (VCU), and will possibly be recommended for planting in the state of Minas Gerais, were derived from the populations Vermelhinho/AN9022180//Vermelhinho/Vermelho2157, Vermelhinho//Vermelhinho/ IAPAR81,Vermelhinho/LR720982// Vermelhinho/AB136 and Vermelhinho/AB136//Vermelhinho/ Vermelho2157.
Phaseolus vulgaris L; recurrent selection; selection within families; red bean
