Genetic Analysis of Mature Size in American Angus Cattle

Authors

Marco G. Dib, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
L. Dale Van Vleck, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Matthew L. Spangler, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

2010

Comments

Published in 2009 Nebraska Beef Cattle Report (Lincoln, NE: December, 2008). Copyright © 2008 The Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska.

Abstract

Genetic parameters for weights and heights of mature cows were estimated using a repeatability model from field data provided by the American Angus Association. The results showed that the heritabilities of both traits were large, and correlations between them were positive and strong. Selection on either trait should easily produce a response, and changing one should lead to a correlated response in the other. Genetic trend was generally for increasing cow weight over the last 25 years.