Breeding schemes for the implementation of genomic selection in wheat (Triticum spp.)

In the last decade the breeding technology referred to as ‘genomic selection’ (GS) has been implementedin a variety of species, with particular success in animal breeding. Recent research shows the potentialof GS to reshape wheat breeding. Many authors have concluded that the estimated genetic gain per yearapplying GS is several times that of conventional breeding. GS is, however, a new technology for wheatbreeding and many programs worldwide are still struggling to identify the best strategy for its imple-mentation. This article provides practical guidelines on the key considerations when implementing GS. Areview of the existing GS literature for a range of species is provided and used to prime breeder-orientedconsiderations on the practical applications of GS. Furthermore, this article discusses potential breedingschemes for GS, genotyping considerations, and methods for effective training population design. Thecomponents of selection intensity, progress toward inbreeding in half- or full-sibs recurrent schemes,and the generation of selection are also presented.