Common bean through a participatory approach in Honduras.

Abstract

This work presents the results of the application

of participatory methods for the genetic improvement of

beans in two regions of Honduras. The methodology and

results obtained from the evaluation and selection activities,

from early generation to advanced trials compare the lines

selected by conventional and participatory methods, and the

trials to estimate the potential of adoption of promising lines,

are shown and described. Evaluation and selection criteria

used by farmers to choose promising lines and varieties are

mentioned. The results are discussed, trying to explain them

according to the basic plant breeding principles and practices

for the improvement of cultivated plants. Finally, the benefits

of participatory plant breeding for farmers are identified,

including those that are related to knowledge and skill

acquisitions, and the increase on individual and collective

capacity to take decisions; as well as the advantages for

breeding programs under these participatory approaches.