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Lactation Curve Modelling and Genetic Parameters Estimation in Murciano-Granadina Goats
Morteza Mokhtari1, Zahra Roudbari1, Ehsan Mohebbinejad2
1Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Jiroft, Jiroft, Iran.
Summary
The Wood (WD) model best describes lactation curves in Murciano-Granadina goats. Low heritability suggests environmental factors, not direct selection, influence lactation traits.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Genetics
- Dairy Production
Background:
- Lactation curve modeling is crucial for dairy goat management and genetic improvement.
- Understanding genetic parameters of lactation traits aids in breeding strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the optimal non-linear model for Murciano-Granadina goat lactation curves.
- To estimate genetic parameters for lactation curve traits (peak time, yield, persistency).
Main Methods:
- Compared five mathematical models (Cappio-Borlino, Cobby and Le Du, Narushin-Takma, Wilmink, Wood) using extensive test-day milk yield records.
- Applied a multivariate animal model with a Bayesian approach to estimate genetic parameters.
Main Results:
- The Wood (WD) model demonstrated superior fit and accuracy for lactation curve description.
- Low heritability estimates (0.05-0.13) were found for lactation curve traits.
- Positive genetic correlations were observed among traits within and across parities.
Conclusions:
- The WD model is recommended for characterizing Murciano-Granadina goat lactation.
- Lactation traits are primarily influenced by non-additive genetic and environmental effects.
- Direct genetic selection may be ineffective for altering lactation curve shape; selection on correlated traits is suggested.
