This study aimed to predict the genetic gain for grain production by applying different selection procedures and to choose, among the studied populations, the most promising one regarding gain expectation. Four selection strategies were used: selection among and within families; combined selection and individual selection for grain production; as well as for selection free from weights and parameters, number of days and plant height at maturation. Generation F5 individuals were selected, placed and observed in the field following the design standard-cultivars among the segregating lines, during the agricultural year of 1996/1997, in Vicosa, Minas Gerais. The results indicated that, considering the family in the selective process, combined selection was the most promising strategy. However, individual selection showed the highest expectation of genetic gain among the four strategies. The cross between the parents CEPS 89-26 and FT-Cristalina presented the highest expectation of genetic gain.
Glycine max (L.) Merrill; heritability; gain prediction
