Index Selection for Improving Feed Efficiency

Improving Feed Efficiency Through Genetics

Genomic selection for feed efficiency traits

Introduction Feed costs comprise the majority of variable expenses in beef cattle systems making feed efficiency an important economic consideration within the beef industry (Koch et al ., 1963; Dickerson et al ., 1974) . Aside from the direct economic impact of this trait complex at the individual producer level, the projections of global population growth provide extra pressure for efficient ...

Considerations for Improving Feed Efficiency in Dairy Cattle

Intensive selection of sires is possible by using artificial insemination; coupled with accurate measurement of a potential sire’s genetic value, this has markedly improved genetics for easily measured traits like milk production and type traits. Increased milk production has in turn increased gross feed efficiency through dilution of maintenance. Additional genetic gains in feed efficiency wou...

Genomic Selection be the Key to Improving Feed Efficiency in Dairy Cattle ?

The efficiency of feed utilization on dairy farms can be influenced by a variety of practices that are beyond the scope of this paper, including many aspects of the harvesting, storage, mixing, and delivery of feed components, as well as the grouping of animals according to nutritional needs. Two practices that will be addressed are: 1) improvement of the biological efficiency of lactating cows...

Valuations of Variables as Selection Index for Improving Grain Yield in Bread Wheat

Identifying selection indices is the most important step of a breeding project that aims to improve grain yield. The definition of the selection index is usually done by evaluating the variables in multivariate statistical methods. In the present study, the relationship between grain yield and its components in bread wheat genotypes was determined by multivariate statistical methods. The experi...