Two approaches to account for genotype-by-environment interactions for production traits and age at first calving in South African Holstein cattle.

ABSTRACT:

Background

If not accounted for, genotype x environment (G×E) interactions can decrease the accuracy of genetic evaluations and the efficiency of breeding schemes. These interactions are reflected by genetic correlations between countries lower than 1. In countries that are characterized by a heterogeneity of production systems, they are also likely to exist within country, especially when production systems are diverse, as is the case in South Africa. We illustrate several alternative approaches to assess the existence of G×E interactions for production traits and age at first calving in Holsteins in South Africa. Data from 257,836 first lactation cows were used. First, phenotypes that were collected in different regions were considered as separate traits and various multivariate

SUBMITTER: Ducrocq V 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9188047 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature