A comparison of individual, family, and index selection methods in Tribolium castaneum

Abstract

Seven replicates of single-generation selection were used to compare genetic gain in Tribolium castaneum, using methods based on information from individuals, full-sib families, or both. Realized responses in pupa weight were greater when selection was applied in the downward as opposed to the upward direction. Although the contrasts were not all significant, the observed response in the upward direction agreed with theoretical expectations where the ranking of methods was combined first, family second, and individual last. In the downward direction, response based on the family method was below expectations, and the combined method yielded results close to those for selection based on individuals.Key words: selection methods, Tribolium, asymmetric response.