Abstract
Performance data from a Polled Hereford herd selected for improved feed conversion were used to calculate a variety of genetic parameters. Heritabilities were .14 for weaning wt, .18 for maternal weaning wt., and .19 for milk production. The genetic correlations were -.10 between weaning weight and maternal weaning weight and 0 between weaning weight and milk production. However, the genetic correlation between maternal weaning weight and milk was . 99, indicating they are essentially the same trait. Milk EPDs published by most breed associations are calculate d as the maternal weaning weight. Our study strongly supports this method of estimating an animal's genotype for milk production.
Highlights
Today, beef pr oducers have a wide array of informatio n to assist them in making sound selection decisions
Milk EPDs published by most breed associations are calculate d as the maternal weaning weight
Our study strongly supports this method of estimating an animal's genotype for milk production
Summary
Performanc e data from a Polled Hereford herd selected for improved feed conversion were used to calculate a variety of genetic parameters. Heritabilities were .14 for weaning wt, .18 for maternal weaning wt., and .19 for milk productio n. The genetic correlations were –.10 between weaning weight and maternal weaning weight and 0 between weaning weight and milk production. The genetic correlatio n between maternal weaning weight and milk was . 99, indicating they are essentially the same trait. Milk EPDs published by most breed associations are calculate das the maternal weanin g weight. Our study strongly supports this method of estimating an animal's genotype for milk production. (Key Words: Weaning Weight, Maternal Weaning Weight, Milk Production, Heritabilities, Genetic Correlations.)
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