The main goal of this work was to compare two experimental designs to estimate different genetic parameters based on the evaluation of 154 recombinant inbred lines (RIL) of the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). Random blocks (RB) and another design, in which, each line was represented by only one plot and compared with intercalated checks (IC) were the designs used. Lines at the F7 generation were obtained by the single seed descent method from a cross between Ouro Negro and Rudá cultivars used as checks in the IC design. Eight quantitative characteristics were evaluated and seven genetic parameters were estimated for each characteristic. The mean values for the characteristics and the experimental precision in both designs were similar. The RB design was better suited to detect genetic variability and was also more accurate than the IC design. Coincidence coefficients between the lines selected in both experimental designs were between 32% and 78% and the smallest values were obtained for traits with low heritabilities.
heritability; genetic variation; breeding methods
