Estimation of Genetic Parameters for Reproductive Traits in Hanwoo (Korean Cattle)

摘要

Due to the extensive marbling of its beef, Hanwoo (Korean native cattle) has continuously gained popularity and has become a mainstay in South Korea’s animal industry. In any beef cattle production system, reproductive performance is one of the main economic aspects taken into consideration. Therefore, genetic parameter estimates are necessary to obtain indices in order to maximize the response to selection, which in turn could lead to higher profitability. To date, knowledge on the genetic parameters for reproductive traits in Hanwoo cattle is still limited. Therefore, this study estimated the variance components, heritability, phenotypic, and genetic correlations of age at first calving (AFC), calving interval (CI), days open (DO), and gestation length (GL) of Hanwoo cattle. This was done using single-trait and multi-trait animal models. Results revealed the low heritability estimates for AFC, CI, DO, and GL in both single-trait and multi-trait models, which indicated the probable slow response of these traits due to direct selection. Moreover, phenotypic and genetic correlations varied from low to high among the reproductive traits of interest. Nevertheless, heritability estimates and genetic correlations shown in this study will prove to be vital as initial estimates are considered in the genetic improvement program of Hanwoo cattle.