Partial Diallel Crosses

Abstract

For a number of parents (N) which can be factorized as n (n-l)/2, two designs are provided: (1) in which each parent is crossed with k = (n-2) (n-3)/2 others and (2) in which k = 2(n-2). For N = mn two further designs have (3) k = (m-1) (n-1) and (4) k = m + n - 2. Methods of deriving least squares estimates of general combining abilities, the associated mean square and the average variance of a difference between two estimates are given. Where applicable, the designs have the advantages of good balance and easy analysis.