Effect of mature size and body condition of Nelore females on the reproductive performance

The size and body condition of cows can affect their reproductive efficiency. However, few studies reported genetic correlations between these traits in beef cattle. Thus, we estimated the genetic parameters and correlations between weight (MW), height (MH) and body condition score (BCS) of cows and reproductive traits (SC: scrotal circumference, AFC: age at first calving, GL: gestation length, DC: days to calving, and CI: calving interval) in Nelore animals. In addition, it has also obtained direct and correlated responses aiming at determining whether changes in cow size and body condition may affect the herd reproductive performance.

Source: Theriogenology - May 30, 2018 Category: Genetics & Stem Cells Authors: V.V. Lacerda, G.S. Campos, V.M. Roso, F.R.P. Souza, C.C. Brauner, A.A. Boligon Source Type: research