Genetic parameters of semen quality traits and genetic correlations with service sire nonreturn rate in Nordic Holstein bulls

Despite the importance of quality semen used in artificial insemination to reproductive success dairy herds, few studies have estimated extent genetic variability traits. Even fewer quantified correlation between traits and male fertility. In this study, records 100,058 ejaculates collected from 2,885 Nordic Holstein bulls were estimate parameters for traits, including pre- postcryopreservation concentration, sperm motility viability, ejaculate volume, number doses per ejaculate. Additionally, summary data on nonreturn rate (NRR) obtained some (n = 2,142) cows different parities (heifers 1–3 or more) correlations service sire NRR. low moderate heritability (0.06–0.45) was indicating possibility improving these through selective breeding. The study also showed high phenotypic NRR viability postcryopreservation, concentration precryopreservation, predictive values positive indicated that selection might be favorable