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Genetic Analysis of Some Reproductive Traits in Khuzestan Buffaloes Using a Multivariate Animal Model
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Bahareh Taheri Dezfoli   , Sirous Eidivandi , Seyedeh Ommolbanin Ghasemian * |
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Abstract: (303 Views) |
Introduction: The aim of this study was to estimate the genetic parameters of some reproductive traits in Khuzestan buffaloes using a multi-trait animal model.
Materials & Methods: For this purpose, 4197 records from 3990 buffaloes in 101 herds, collected during 2014–2024 by the Deputy of Animal Production Improvement of Khuzestan Agricultural Jihad Organization, were analyzed. After data editing and testing the normality of trait distribution, additive genetic variance and covariance components were estimated.
Results: The results indicated that the highest additive genetic variance was observed for the calving interval between the second and third parities, while the lowest value was related to the interval between the fourth and fifth parities. Heritability estimates for CI12, CI23, CI34, CI45, and CI56 were 0.08, 0.29, 0.09, 0.03, and 0.18, respectively, indicating generally low heritability and a considerable influence of environmental factors on these traits. The highest genetic correlation (0.99) was found between the calving intervals of the third–fourth and fourth–fifth parities, whereas negligible genetic correlations were observed among some other calving intervals. Furthermore, the low and positive genetic correlation between age at first calving and calving interval in the second lactation suggested that selection based on age at first calving would have limited impact on improving calving interval.
Conclusion: Overall, given the low heritability of reproductive traits, improvements in management, nutrition, and recording accuracy could play a significant role in enhancing the reproductive performance of Khuzestan buffaloes. |
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| Keywords: Genetic parameters, Calving interval, Animal model, Buffalo, Khuzestan |
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Full-Text [PDF 745 kb]
(89 Downloads)
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Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
Special
Received: 2026/06/5 | Accepted: 2026/05/31 | Published: 2026/09/7
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