Quantitative Genetics Books

Fundamental principles of quantitative genetics and heredity

⭐ Essential Reading

(2 books)
Introduction to Quantitative Genetics
⭐ Essential
Intermediate

Introduction to Quantitative Genetics

Douglas S. Falconer, Trudy F.C. Mackay (1996)

The foundational textbook for quantitative genetics. Classic introduction covering fundamental principles of inheritance, heritability, selection response, and breeding theory.

Quantitative GeneticsHeritabilitySelection

This book may be available from your University library website

Evolution and Selection of Quantitative Traits
⭐ Essential
Advanced

Evolution and Selection of Quantitative Traits

Bruce Walsh, Michael Lynch (2018)

2nd edition of the famous Lynch and Walsh (1998) book on quantitative genetics. Comprehensive modern treatment of evolutionary quantitative genetics.

Quantitative GeneticsEvolutionAdvanced

This book may be available from your University library website

👍 Recommended

(3 books)
Genetics and Analysis of Quantitative Traits
👍 Recommended
Advanced

Genetics and Analysis of Quantitative Traits

Michael Lynch, Bruce Walsh (1998)

Classic book to learn mathematics associated with quantitative genetics. Rigorous treatment of theory and methods. First edition of Walsh and Lynch (2018).

Quantitative GeneticsMathematicsTheory

This book may be available from your University library website

Population and Quantitative Genetics
👍 Recommended
Intermediate

Population and Quantitative Genetics

Graham Coop

Open source textbook (Creative Commons license) on population and quantitative genetics. Available freely on GitHub. 3rd edition.

Quantitative GeneticsPopulation GeneticsOpen Source
Quantitative Genetics for Plant Breeding
👍 Recommended
Intermediate

Quantitative Genetics for Plant Breeding

Walter Suza, Kendall Lamkey, William Beavis, Katherine Espinosa, Mark Newell, Anthony Assibi Mahama

Open access textbook on quantitative genetics from Iowa State University Digital Press. While focused on plant breeding, covers fundamental quantitative genetics principles applicable to all species. Free PDF available.

Quantitative GeneticsPlant BreedingOpen Access

💡 Learning Path

Beginners: Start with Falconer & Mackay for a solid foundation in quantitative genetics principles.

Advanced: Lynch & Walsh (1998) provides rigorous mathematical treatment. Walsh & Lynch (2018) is the updated 2nd edition.

Free Resource: Graham Coop's open source notes are freely available on GitHub and provide excellent modern coverage.