Genetic parameters and genetic trend of some yield traits of Holstein Friesian cattle population in Tropical Region (Teke)

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine the milk yield and reproduction characteristics, genetic trend, and breeding values of Holstein cattle reared in Teke region (Antalya, Burdur, Denizli, and Isparta provinces) of Turkey. In this study, 9844 lactation and reproductive records of Holstein Friesian dairy cattle for the period of 2010 to 2017 were used. For this purpose, variance components and the heritability were calculated based on calving interval (CI) and number of inseminations per conception (NIC) from fertility characteristics and lactation length (LL), 305-day milk yield (305 DMY), and dry period (DP). It was determined that CI, NIC, LL, 305 DMY, and DP were 0.11, 0.10, 0.11, 0.33, and 0.01, respectively. The genetic trend of 305 DMY was 111.5 kg/year. The average breeding value was negative between 2005 and 2009 and positive between 2010 and 2015. In conclusion, the fact that especially 305 DMY heritability was generally higher in this study than the values reported by other studies conducted in Turkey and the genetic trend for 305 DMY was positive and high indicates that breeding value of Holstein cattle in the Teke region is high. Therefore, it can be recommended to continue the pedigree breeding of Holstein cattle in this region, keep pedigree and yield records meticulously, estimate breeding values for selecting animals with superior yield characteristics and using them in future generations, and include current biotechnological methods in breeding program to increase the efficiency in selection. © 2021, The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V.