Abstract

The SIL system for genetic improvement of productivity in the New Zealand sheep flock has been reviewed. It is technically well designed, and provides first rate genetic information to a range of breeder users. However, the availability of such a system for performance recording and genetic evaluation does not guarantee that it will be fully utilised by industry to achieve high rates of genetic gain for economically important breeding objectives. Ways of maximizing participation by the nucleus sector and of maximising the choice among genetically comparable rams for the commercial sector need to be pursued.

LR, Piper, and R Banks

Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production, Volume 63, Queenstown, 183-186, 2003