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Development of selection indexes for a beef cattle production system from available EPDs
Due to the complexity of selection in beef cattle where numerous traits are involved, identification of breeding objectives and developing a selection index to improve a global goal is required. A selection index was developed to maximize genetic gain for a beef cattle operation system. Breeding objective includes calving rate, carcass weight, calving ease, feed intake, direct and maternal weaning weight. Indexes were constructed from traits which EPDs are available so it can be implement to make comparisons between animals with different genetic merit. Genetic responses obtained from the use of a propose index were compared with simpler indexes. Selection through the proposed index achieved higher genetic progress in the breeding objective and resulted in an increased economic return to the system. The lack of national genetic parameters for some of the most important traits is a limitation and some implications were discussed.
Keywords:
Beef cattle
Breeding objectives
Selection index
