Estimation Of Genetic Parameters Of Type Traits For Namibian Brahman Beef Cattle

Abstract Text: Data were recorded for 35 685 Namibian Brahman beef cattle from 1990 to 2012 by inspectors of the Namibian Brahman Breed Society, Africa. Seventeen visually scored type trait with pedigree records were analysed to obtain genetic parameters.  Heritability estimates were low to moderate ranging from 0.05 - 0.36 with genetic correlations ranging from 0 - 0.92.  The effect of inspectors varied significantly necessitating their inclusion in any model used for prediction or selection purposes. The type traits exhibited both variability and heritability indicating that response due to selection could be achieved to improve and maintain desired types.  Further analyses of economically important production and reproduction traits combined with type traits should be performed to establish the feasibility of combining type traits in routine analyses to improve accurate identification of superior animals for the Namibian Brahman beef cattle.

Keywords:

Beef cattle

Type traits

Genetic Parameters