Utilisation of population genetic and multivariate methods in the evaluation of results of cattle type traits judgment

Abstract

The results of the evaluation of linear type traits evaluation of Hungarian beef cattle populations were analysed by means of both traditional population genetic and multivariate biometric methods, i.e. by means of cluster analysis based on factor analysis. By using the multivariate methods it was possible to evaluate the different types of cattle with respect to type traits, reproductivity and productivity properties. It is proven by the results obtained that factor analysis is practicable in the judgement at the population level of the individual properties. A great number of type traits--27 or more--making an interrelating system can be analysed well by this method whilst the cluster analysis based on the factor analysis is suitable to classify the population on the basis of individual evaluation with simultaneous consideration of all type traits.