Genetic evaluation of Alpine goats using different milk control intervals

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Genetics
• Dairy Production

Background:

• Genetic evaluation relies on accurate milk yield data.
• Optimizing milk recording intervals balances cost and data quality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare genetic evaluation outcomes using varying milk control intervals.
• To determine cost-effective milk yield control strategies for goat breeding.

Main Methods:

• Analyzed 20,710 test day milk yield records from Alpine goats.
• Created datasets with 7, 14, 21, and 28-day control intervals.
• Utilized RENPED and WOMBAT programs for data processing and genetic evaluations.

Main Results:

• 7-day intervals are recommended for high-technical level breeding programs.
• 14- and 21-day intervals provide satisfactory results with reduced costs for average-to-low technical level farms.
• Analysis considered restricted maximum likelihood, computation time, correlations, and genetic value comparisons.

Conclusions:

• The optimal milk control interval depends on farm technical level and genetic improvement goals.
• Shorter intervals (7 days) ensure higher quality genetic evaluations.
• Longer intervals (14-21 days) offer a viable, cost-effective alternative for specific farm types.