Abstract
Performance testing of bulls for AI has been an important factor in cattle-breeding plans in Europe. An EAAP working group was set up to evaluate the standards and to set up new recommendations. The potential traits for testing and selection are described. The main traits are growth rate, feed efficiency, appetite, and carcass properties. Genetic parameters for these traits are given (Table I). The effect of the adaptation period, age and length of test are discussed with particular reference to the role of the feeding system in relation to the correlated responses of selection for growth rate. A survey was undertaken amongst the EAAP countries on facilities for testing, breeds, ownership, housing and feeding systems, starting points and length of tests (Tables II–IX). General recommendations for performance-testing techniques and presentation of results are given for both dairy/dual-purpose and beef breeds. Finally, the need for further research is discussed. This deals both with improvement of testing techniques and the relationship between performance-test results and the productivity/efficiency of male and female progeny in the field.
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