Maximising response with a predefined rate of inbreeding for overlapping generation structure

Abstract

Wray and Thompson (1990) described the relationship between genetic contributions and the rate of inbreeding and this work was extended by Woolliams and Thompson (1994) to interpret genetic response in terms of genetic contributions. By using these relationships Meuwissen (1997) developed an algorithm for obtaining optimum selection decisions at a given (discrete) generation and level of inbreeding by maximising a function of accumulated gain corrected for squared contributions. Here we extend this method for optimising populations with overlapping generation structure and maximising response at a given rate rather than level of inbreeding. Three modifications to the afore mentioned model are presented: an augmented numerator relationship matrix which has not been corrected for reduced Mendelian variance with inbreeding, the consideration of committed future contributions beyond the next cohort derived from the lifetime breeding profile of the population, and a constraint to achieve the desired rate of inbreeding.