Genetic gain in grain yield across the historical series of forage triticale cultivars released by the Universidad Autónoma Agraria Antonio Narro;

Resumen

Objective: To evaluate genetic progress in grain yield and associated agronomic traits in forage triticale (x Triticosecale Wittmack) cultivars developed by the Universidad Autónoma Agraria Antonio Narro (UAAAN) between 1992 and 2022.

Design/Methodology/Approach: Seven winter-habit cultivars, classified as older, intermediate, and modern, were evaluated at 19 locations in northern Mexico (2019-2023) for grain yield (GY) and at three locations (2023-2024) for yield components (YC). A randomized complete block design with three replications was used. Analysis of variance and linear regression were performed to estimate absolute and relative genetic gains.

Results: Significant differences were detected between release periods for GY and YC. Modern cultivars obtained the highest average (6.105 t ha^-1), with absolute genetic gains of 70 kg ha^-1 year^-1 and relative gains of 2.1% year^-1. A sustained increase in grains m^-2 and a reduction in plant height without affecting biomass production were observed.

Limitations on study/Implications: The study focused solely on UAAAN winter cultivars under conditions in northern Mexico. Extrapolation to other programs should be done with caution.

Findings/Conclusions: The UAAAN breeding program has achieved significant genetic advances in forage triticale, combining increases in GY and YC with height reduction. The results provided key information for strengthening the institutional program, with a focus on GY and productive stability, while maintaining forage potential and adapting to current systems.