Assessment of genetic progress in soft wheat in Tunisia

The programme for the genetic improvement of soft wheat began in Tunisia in 1909, initiated by François BŒUF. Research has continued to the present day, resulting in the development of all the soft wheat varieties currently used by our farmers. The aim of this study is to assess the variability in genetic progress across 15 soft wheat varieties introduced into production over the last century in Tunisia. In contrast to late-maturing genotypes (older varieties), early-maturing genotypes achieved the highest grain yields. The genetic progress achieved (1.7 qx/year) does not reflect the actual genetic gain of all varieties over the past century. Indeed, it merely reflects the difference in varietal genetic potential under the conditions of the Boulifa region during this growing season.