Cow Herd Efficiency
Opportunities for Genetic Evaluation of Longevity
Abstract:
Whole-herd reporting provides an opportunity for genetic evaluation of traits indicative of sustained reproductive success and length of productive life. The binomial trait “stayability” is presently the most commonly discussed and reported indicator in the U.S. beef industry. Other indicators, including days to calving, calving day and traits based on actuarial principles are also used.
Goals of this presentation are to:
- 1) consider alternative definitions for traits that could potentially be evaluated in national cattle evaluation (NCE);
- 2) review results from a sample of genetic analyses of indicators of sustained reproductive success and longevity; and
- 3) present preliminary results from an analysis of data collected by the American Hereford Association since implementation of whole-herd reporting.
Earlier studies indicate heritability of these traits may be in the range of 0.1 to 0.2, and that other traits measured before 1 year of age may not be useful in their prediction. It has also been found that as breeding value for cow weight increased, the risk of being culled may decrease; whereas the risk of being culled may increase with increasing maternal breeding values for preweaning gain. It is hoped that this discussion will move improvement programs in the direction of providing producers better tools for advancing genetic potential for reproductive success.
Editor’s Note: The above material is provided by and posted with permission of the Beef Improvement Federation. Please direct reprint requests to BIF via the “Contact BIF” page at www.beefimprovement.org.
