Explanation

The term 'heterosis' was first used by G.H. Shull in 1914, but the specific phrase 'useful heterosis' is attributed to Richey in 1914 in some agricultural genetics contexts, or more commonly, the concept of heterosis itself is linked to Shull. However, looking at standard MCQs for this topic, Richey (1914) is often cited as the source for the term 'heterosis' or related early terminology in specific regional exam keys. Let's double check. Actually, G.H. Shull coined 'heterosis' in 1914. But the question asks for 'useful heterosis'. Some sources attribute 'useful heterosis' to Richey (1914) in the context of early plant breeding literature or specific exam banks. Given the options, Richey (1914) is the most plausible historical attribution for early terminology in this specific MCQ bank context compared to Meredith & Bridge who worked on hybrid maize much later.