Genetic Devaluation for Inbreeding

Reference ID:558

Whereas …

Whereas, the important increase in the inbreeding levels of the Holstein population in the last decade is around 0.25%; and,

Whereas, the high level of inbreeding of Holstein heifers born in 2019, at 8.13%; and,

Whereas, the article published by CDN in March 2009 “Quantifying Inbreeding Depression” clearly shows a negative performance on the production, the fertility and the longevity of the breed;

Therefore …

Therefore, it is proposed that Lactanet, in collaboration with breed associations, reassess the negative influence of inbreeding on the performance of dairy cows and impose a genetic devaluation on the animals having inbreeding levels above the breed average.