Abstract

Developments in genetic evaluation techniques used in the SIL genetic engine have increased the accuracy with which estimated breeding values are calculated and have provided maternal breeding values for growth and survival traits. Although these will assist progressive breeders, a considerable number of breeders would gain greater benefits from improvements in data recording techniques to more fully utilise the potential of the SIL genetic engine to identify genetically superior animals. In particular, reproductive and survival data are often recorded less than optimally. Ewes culled at pregnancy scanning, barren ewes, lambs born dead and lamb deaths from birth to weaning require particular attention.

S-AN, Newman

Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production, Volume 63, Queenstown, 194-196, 2003