The objective of this work was to evaluate the bunch yield and to estimate the genetic parameters of F1-progenies between caiaué (Elaeis oleifera) and African oil palm (E. guineenses). The progenies were planted in plots with a variable number of plants. The number of bunches (NB), average bunch weight (ABW), and fresh fruit-bunch yield (FFB) were evaluated, per plant, from the seventh to the thirteenth year after planting. These data were analyzed by REML/BLUP in 59 progenies, with a row-and-column unbalanced design. All characters showed a considerable genetic variability, with genetic variation coefficients between 18.1 and 25.5% for progenies, and 25.6 and 36.0% for individuals. Gains of more than 30%, for NB and FFB, and above 20% for ABW can be obtained selecting the five best progenies. By selecting the five best individuals, gains of more than 65% for NB and FFB, and above 60% for ABW, can be obtained. The progenies show a high-genetic variability for bunch yield. High-genetic gains can be obtained by selecting both for individuals, for clonal propagation, and for progenies, for seed propagation.
Elaeis guineensis; Elaeis oleifera; African palm oil; American palm oil; REML/BLUP; repeatability; simultaneous selection
