Genetic analysis of growth and feed intake patterns in pigs
Objective of this thesis was to quantify genetic differences in performance patterns of pigs by means of random regression models. Emphasis was on growth and feed intake patterns in pigs. Genetic parameters for weight, daily gain and daily feed intake were estimated using random regression models, where traits were modelled on a continuous scale, i.e. age, days on test or weight. Interactions between weight, daily gain, and daily feed intake during a trajectory were studied. The possibilities to change (part of) performance pattern of pigs through selection were investigated using simulation. Random regression models provide a method to analyse longitudinal records in animal breeding that reveal specific patterns of change over a trajectory. Advantages of the application of random regression models were a higher accuracy of selection, the use of information of the course of traits, and the possibility to change the course of a trait through selection. Measurements of live weight, daily gain, and daily feed intake taken at different points along this trajectory cannot be regarded as repeated measurements of the same trait. It is possible to change patterns of weight, daily feed intake, and daily gain over an age trajectory through genetic selection; the extent of change depends on the genetic correlation structure. A set of multivariate random regression models can be set up, yielding estimated breeding values for traits of interest along a trajectory, e.g. a weight - or age trajectory. These estimated breeding values for different points along a trajectory can be considered as estimated breeding values of separate traits. A breeding goal that incorporates all these traits can be set up, putting more emphasis on that part of the trajectory that we want to change. Random regression models are a helpful tool in identifying and selecting animals that show desired patterns for a combination of traits
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| Format: | Doctoral thesis biblioteca |
| Language: | English |
| Subjects: | animal breeding, breeding value, feed intake, genetic analysis, growth, performance, pigs, regression analysis, selection, dierveredeling, fokwaarde, genetische analyse, groei, prestatieniveau, regressieanalyse, selectie, varkens, voeropname, |
| Online Access: | https://research.wur.nl/en/publications/genetic-analysis-of-growth-and-feed-intake-patterns-in-pigs |
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