Simple and Constrained Selection Indices with and without Calving Interval Included in Selection Goal Function for Holstein Cows of Iran

Abstract

Two selection goals of inclusion or exclusion of calving interval (CI) in the selection goal function for Holstein cows in Iran, besides milk yield, milk fat percentage, and milk protein percentage, were studied. Four selection indices were composed of using the information on production traits, CI and / or days from calving to first insemination (DFI). The results of the predicted genetic growth in selection goals showed that the index composed of all production and reproduction traits generated the greatest genetic growth. Although CI had a negative coefficient in the selection goal, it is genetic mean increased in any case. However, the magnitude of this undesirable increase was lower in the CI included selection goal. This implies that the inclusion of CI in the selection goal is necessary to control the undesirable growth of this trait. The comparison of indices in this goal reflected that the inclusion of CI along with the production traits resulted in a smaller undesirable change in this trait. Constraining the genetic change in CI in the selection goal impaired the selection efficiency. So, this constraint is not recommended for breeding programs.