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Genetic parameters for buffalo milk yield and milk quality traits using Bayesian inference
R R Aspilcueta-Borquis1, F R Araujo Neto, F Baldi
1Department of Animal Science, São Paulo State University (FCAV/UNESP), Jaboticabal, SP, 14884 900, Brazil.
Journal of Dairy Science
|April 24, 2010
Summary
Accurate genetic parameters for milking buffaloes are vital for breeding programs. This study estimated heritabilities and genetic correlations for milk yield, components, and somatic cell scores, revealing sufficient genetic variation for selection and minimal negative impacts on milk components when selecting for yield.
Area of Science:
- Animal Breeding and Genetics
- Dairy Science
- Quantitative Genetics
Background:
- Accurate genetic parameters are essential for effective genetic evaluation programs in livestock.
- Milking buffaloes represent a significant economic resource, making genetic improvement crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate heritabilities and genetic correlations for key economic traits in milking buffaloes.
- To assess the genetic variation available for selection in milk yield, components, and somatic cell scores.
- To inform breeding strategies by understanding the genetic relationships between these traits.
Main Methods:
- Bayesian inference methodology using Gibbs sampling.
- A multiple-trait animal model incorporating additive genetic, permanent environmental, and residual effects.
- Analysis of 4,907 lactations from 1,985 milking buffaloes.
Main Results:
- Heritability estimates ranged from 0.21 (for fat yield) to 0.39 (for protein percentage).
- Genetic correlations indicated strong positive relationships between milk yield and its components (e.g., MY305 and PY305 = 0.94).
- Milk components and somatic cell scores showed minimal negative genetic correlations with milk yield, suggesting selection is feasible.
Conclusions:
- Sufficient genetic variation exists in milking buffaloes for milk yield, components, and somatic cell scores to support selection programs.
- Selection for increased milk yield is unlikely to negatively impact milk components or somatic cell scores significantly.
- Selection for increased fat or protein yield will concurrently enhance milk yield and its components.
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