Heritability and genetic advance of hull peeling in two-row barley

Two populations, developed from three two-rowed malting barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) lines, were used to estimate the heritability, variability, and genetic advance of hull peeling in 1985 and 1986 at Saskatoon, Canada. The populations were Harrington/Ellice and Harrington/WM797-83. In both populations, estimates of heritability were relatively low to moderate. Coupled with the high variability found within the parental lines, it was concluded that hull peeling is largely an environmentally influenced trait. Estimates of genetic advance indicated that moderate gains could be achieved with stringent selection pressure (5%) against hull peeling. A great deal of variability was found within the F 3 and F 4 generations indicating potential for improvement through selection. Based on results obtained, selection for hull adherence would best be incorporated into the later generations of an already established breeding program.Key words: Barley, heritability, genetic advance, hull peeling, Harrington, Hordeum vulgare