“SpeedGS” to Accelerate Genetic Gain in Spring Wheat

Abstract The genetic improvement of modern wheat varieties has been very successful throughout the history of breeding; yet, future wheat production remains challenging. While annual yield increases need to be doubled over the next few decades, the global production trends in all major wheat growing regions indicate a yield plateau. To overcome this, innovative strategies that efficiently integrate modern technologies in breeding programs are required. Using simulations based on real wheat data sets, we exemplify how genomic selection and “speed breeding,” a novel rapid generation advancement technology, can be combined to substantially reduce the length of the breeding cycle and maximize genetic gain per unit time. We outline the opportunities and challenges associated with the fusion of these breeding tools and reinforce the importance of integrating novel genetic diversity in breeding programs to achieve sustainable long-term genetic gain.