Recurrent selection for high iron and zinc concentrations in black bean grain

The iron concentration (FeC) and zinc concentration (ZnC) in common bean grain are quantitative traits, and appropriate breeding techniques are required to achieve genetic gain. The aim of this study was to obtain a recurrent selection population of black bean to increase the FeC and ZnC in the grain and to select the superior progenies for formation of the next cycle and obtain lines. The base population was formed by crosses among ten parents. A total of 351 progenies were obtained, and, after two generations of selection, the 27 best progenies were evaluated in two field trials for FeC, ZnC, 100 seed weight and yield. Analyses of variance were carried out and genetic parameters were estimated. The heritability estimates ranged from 59 to 94% for the four traits. The estimates of expected gain from direct selection for each trait (3 to 21%) and simultaneous selection (1 to 4%) indicate success from selection. The eight progenies, selected based on simultaneous selection, have superior mean values, including to those of ‘BRS Supremo’ (10% for FeC, 8% for ZnC, 5% for 100 seed weight and 3.8% for yield), the Brazilian black bean cultivar with the highest FeC and ZnC. The recurrent selection population shows high genetic variability and potential for obtaining lines superior to the cultivars currently on the market, allying high agronomic performance and high FeC and ZnC in the grain. Furthermore, this population shows potential for generating a new recurrent selection cycle, from recombination of the eight superior progenies.