Using Random Regression Models to Genetically Evaluate Functional Longevity Traits in North American Angus Cattle.

ABSTRACT: This study aimed to propose novel longevity indicators by comparing genetic parameters for traditional (TL; i.e., the cow's lifespan after the first calving) and functional (FL; i.e., how long the cow stayed in the herd while also calving; assuming no missing (FLa) or missing (FLb) records for unknown calving) longevity, considering different culling reasons (natural death, structural problems, disease, fertility, performance, and miscellaneous). Longevity definitions were evaluated from 2 to 15 years of age, using single- and multiple-trait Bayesian random regression models (RRM). The RRM fitting heterogenous residual variance and fourth order Legendre polynomials were considered as the optimal models for the majority of longevity indicators. The average heritability estimates over ages f

SUBMITTER: Oliveira HR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7766511 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature