Association between conformation traits and productive performance in Holstein cows in the department of Antioquia, Colombia

Abstract

Conformation traits have been related with reproductive parameters and can be used as their indicators. These traits appear earlier in life than reproductive traits and, thus, may allow for faster selection of prolific animals. In order to estimate the phenotypic association between conformation and reproductive traits, 8,037 records from 139 Holstein cow herds were analyzed. The analysis of association was done with a generalized linear model, regression analysis and Pearson correlation coefficient. The results showed that the association between conformation traits tends to be low to medium (0.00 - 0.46); the highest association was for rear udder height and rear udder weight (0.46), while the lowest was for chest width and central ligament (-0.0024). Conformation traits that showed a significant effect on reproductive traits were body and udder compound, angularity, stature and rear udder width. The highest regression coefficient was for calving interval and body compound (-43.13 days); the lowest was for services per conception and rear udder width (-0.063 services). Phenotypic correlations with reproductive traits were low (0.00 to 0.04). The highest correlation was for services per conception and foot angle (0.04); the lowest was for calving interval and rear legs rear view (0.00). These results indicate that there are not phenotypic associations between conformation traits and reproductive parameters. It is important to estimate genetic correlation and determinate their importance and possibilities for use in genetic improvement programs.