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Genomic Selection for Early Growth Traits in Inner Mongolian Cashmere Goats Using ABLUP, GBLUP, and ssGBLUP Methods
Tao Zhang1,2, Linyu Gao1,3,4, Bohan Zhou1,3,4
1College of Animal Science, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China.
Animals : an Open Access Journal From MDPI
|June 26, 2025
Summary
Genomic selection in Inner Mongolian cashmere goats (IMCGs) identified the best model and method for improving early growth traits. The ssGBLUP method with a comprehensive animal model demonstrated superior accuracy for genomic estimated breeding values (GEBVs).
Area of Science:
- Animal Genetics and Breeding
- Quantitative Genetics
- Livestock Genomics
Background:
- Early growth traits are crucial for cashmere goat production.
- Genomic selection offers potential for accelerating genetic gain.
- Identifying optimal models and methods is essential for effective genomic selection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the most effective genomic selection model and method for early growth traits in Inner Mongolian cashmere goats (IMCGs).
- To evaluate the accuracy and reliability of genomic estimated breeding values (GEBVs) using different approaches.
- To estimate heritability for key growth traits.
Main Methods:
- Utilized SNP data (50,728), phenotype data (birth weight, weaning weight, daily weight gain, yearling weight) from 2256 individuals, and pedigree data from 14,165 individuals.
- Analyzed fixed effects using a generalized linear model and evaluated four single-trait animal models with ABLUP, GBLUP, and ssGBLUP methods.
- Employed a likelihood ratio test for model selection and five-fold cross-validation for GEBV accuracy assessment.
Main Results:
- Birth year, herd, sex, birth type, and dam age significantly influenced growth traits (p < 0.05 or p < 0.01).
- Model 4, incorporating direct and maternal effects, maternal environment, and their covariance, was identified as optimal.
- The ssGBLUP method achieved the highest GEBV accuracy (0.61-0.70), surpassing GBLUP and ABLUP.
- Heritability estimates for birth weight, weaning weight, daily weight gain, and yearling weight were 0.11, 0.25, 0.15, and 0.23, respectively.
Conclusions:
- The ssGBLUP method is recommended for enhancing genetic progress in IMCGs due to its superior GEBV accuracy.
- The optimal model incorporates direct and maternal additive genetic effects, as well as maternal environmental effects.
- Accurate genomic evaluation is crucial for efficient breeding programs in cashmere goats.
