Abstract

The Sheep Improvement Limited (SIL) genetic engine (GE) interfaces with the SIL national database. It calculates breeding values from data provided by the database and reports these back to the database along with adjusted deviations and genetic trends graphs. The SIL system is a distributed and modular design, with the database and the GE located on separate computers connected via the Internet. The individual GE components are also modular and version 2 consists of 6 separate goal trait modules: growth, meat, wool, reproduction, survival and host resistance to internal parasites. This modular design allows each goal trait module to be easily upgraded and additional modules can be added as required. The GE uses across flock and year multivariate animal model BLUP. Evaluations can be requested as required by the user via Internet access to the database. The size of the job submitted scales transparently up to requests involving more than 200,000 animals, sufficient for the largest across flock sire referencing schemes. The intention is that the system will be continuously extended and improved. Near term developments are likely to extend to across breed analyses, the inclusion of a facial eczema module, and improved diagnostics. In the longer term it is anticipated that information from genetic markers will be included.

SA, Newman, KG Dodds, JN Clarke, DJ Garrick, and JC McEwan

Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production, Volume 60, Hamilton, 195-197, 2000