Breeding and Genetics

Genetic Relationship between Live Animal Ultrasound Measures and Scrotal Circumference in Yearling Angus Bulls

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Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determining the relationship between 365-d yearling scrotal circumference, scanning weight, and component ultrasound measured compositional traits. The genetic correlations between scrotal circumference measured at 365-d of age and other live animal measures are low. Of these five genetic relationships, the highest correlation is with % intramuscular fat (IMF) at .13. However, this is a low genetic correlation. The positive sign of the scrotal circumference-% IMF genetic correlation is encouraging for breeders wanting to increase scrotal circumference and % IMF at the same time. Scrotal circumference in yearling Angus bulls is not strongly linked genetically with weight and compositional traits. Selection programs for either increased retail product (as measured by weight and ribeye area) or quality (as measured by % IMF) will not result in an antagonistic effect on scrotal circumference.

Keywords: ASL R1737

How to Cite:

Wilson, D. E., Rouse, G. H. & Hays, C. L., (2002) “Genetic Relationship between Live Animal Ultrasound Measures and Scrotal Circumference in Yearling Angus Bulls”, Iowa State University Animal Industry Report 1(1).