The effect of selection for litter size and litter weight at weaning in mice maintained on two diets

Abstract

SUMMARYAn experiment was carried out with mice over 24 generations to measure the response obtained to selection for litter size and litter weight at weaning on two dietary regimes designated normal and diluted. In addition, control groups bred by random mating were maintained on each diet. The stock were maintained on the diets from generation 0–3 after which time selection for the traits started and continued up to generation 17. After generation 17 for a further 6 generations, all selection stopped and half of each group was switched on to the other diet, while the remaining half continued as before.No significant response was obtained to selection for either litter size or litter weight at weaning.The diets provided did not bring about a differential response to selection for the traits, and the response to the dietary switch was small and temporary in its effect.Due to strong maternal effects and low heritability, little genetic improvement was obtained by selection for litter size and litter weight at weaning in these mice.