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Genetic parameters of lifetime performance traits in Holstein cows
V P Chauhan1, J F Hayes, L K Jairath
1Macdonald College of McGill University, Canada.
Genetic parameters for Holstein cow lifetime performance traits were estimated. Low heritability suggests limited success for direct selection, though productive life strongly correlates with lifetime fat yield.
Area of Science:
- Animal Genetics
- Quantitative Genetics
- Dairy Science
Background:
- Estimating genetic parameters is crucial for effective breeding programs in dairy cattle.
- Understanding lifetime performance traits influences sustainable dairy production.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate heritabilities and genetic correlations for key lifetime performance traits in Holstein cows.
- To assess the potential for genetic selection based on these traits.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a multivariate REML (Restricted Maximum Likelihood) technique.
- Analyzed records from 44,933 Holstein progeny of 427 young and 119 proven sires across 1949 herds.
- Employed a sire model incorporating relationships among young sires, with proven sires as fixed effects.
Main Results:
- Heritabilities for lifetime traits ranged from 0.005 to 0.030, indicating low scope for direct selection.
- Productive life showed the highest genetic correlation with lifetime fat yield (0.934).
- Genetic correlations between productive life and lifetime milk/protein yields were similar (0.773 and 0.772).
Conclusions:
- Direct selection for lifetime performance traits in Holstein cows has limited potential due to low heritability.
- Lifetime fat yield is strongly genetically correlated with productive life and number of lactations.
- These findings inform breeding strategies for improving dairy cow longevity and performance.
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