First Results of a MAS Study in Dairy Cattle with Respect to Longevity (short communication)

Abstract

A study where Casein loci were used to be markers for improving milk yield, fat content and protein yield in a marker assisted selection experiment focused on possible side effects of this process on longevity traits. Using the data of two samples of cows a Simulation on the data was carried out evaluating the selection differences in period of use, period of life and production of the whole life indirectly. The selection criteria were flexible using one of the milk production traits each as well as marker information. During the investigated period no negative effect of simulated selection using EBV for milk yield, fat content and protein yield alone or in combination with the Casein loci used as markers on longevity traits occurred in the population. There are no significant differences regarding the longevity traits caused by selection for Single milk trait based on pure EBV and MAS.