Original scientific paper

Cluster Analysis on Across Country Genetic Correlations for Conformation Traits in Holstein Cattle Breed

Mara Battagin ; University of Padova, PhD School in Animal and Food Science, Department of Animal Science, Viale dell’Università 16, 35020 Legnaro (PD), Italy
Flavio Forabosco ; Interbull Centre, Box 7023 S-75007 Uppsala, Sweden
Mauro Penasa ; University of Padova, PhD School in Animal and Food Science, Department of Animal Science, Viale dell’Università 16, 35020 Legnaro (PD), Italy
Martino Cassandro ; University of Padova, PhD School in Animal and Food Science, Department of Animal Science, Viale dell’Università 16, 35020 Legnaro (PD), Italy

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to investigate across country genetic correlations of conformation traits of 21 Holstein bull populations, using cluster analysis. Data consisted of across country genetic correlations of 18 conformation traits estimated by Interbull for the April 2011 routine genetic evaluation. For cluster analysis, the distance measure (dij) between countries i and j was calculated as dij=1-rG2ij, where rGij is the genetic correlation between countries i and j. Traits showed different mean distances with the lowest value for udder depth (0.062) and the highest for locomotion (0.441). For traits with similar definition further investigation is needed to understand differences within cluster. Also, more attention needs to be paid to countries that define or record traits differently from what is suggested by World Holstein Friesian Federation.

Keywords

conformation traits; dairy international evaluation; genetic correlations; cluster analysis

Hrčak ID:

72050

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/72050

Publication date:

3.10.2011.

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