Accelerometers Provide Early Genetic Selection Criteria for Jumping Horses

Area of Science:

• Equine genetics
• Animal biomechanics
• Sports science

Background:

• Locomotor jumping ability is crucial for equine athletic performance.
• Objective and heritable selection criteria are needed to improve jumping horses.
• Wearable sensors offer a novel approach to quantify jumping biomechanics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the genetic basis of jumping ability using accelerometer data.
• To estimate genetic correlations between jumping performance and competition results.
• To assess the potential of these traits as selection criteria in breeding programs.

Main Methods:

• 1,056 young horses were fitted with 3D accelerometers during free jumping tests.
• Seven jump variables were extracted from dorso-ventral acceleration.
• Judges scored free jumping and under-saddle tests; competition results were recorded.
• An animal mixed model analyzed heritability and genetic correlations using a four-generation pedigree.

Main Results:

• Jump duration exhibited the highest heritability (h²=0.16) and repeatability (r=0.52).
• Acceleration variables showed moderate heritability (h²=0.05-0.09).
• Judgement scores were heritable (h²=0.21-0.33) and genetically correlated with jump duration and competition performance.

Conclusions:

• Jump duration and judgement scores are heritable and repeatable traits.
• These traits are genetically correlated with competition performance, making them suitable for early selection.
• Accelerometer-based measurements provide objective and easily recordable data for equine selection.