Genetic Correlations of Reproductive and Maternal Traits with Growth and Carcass Traits in Beef Cattle

Some genes may affect more than one trait. Therefore, the traits can be genetically correlated. Knowledge of genetic correlations among traits is useful for efficient selection of replacement bulls and heifers if the breeder considers more than one trait. In designed selection programs, emphasis to be placed on the various traits can depend, in part, on the genetic correlations among them. In addition, genetic correlations can be used to predict what is expected to happen to traits other than those used in selection as a result of that selection. This effect on traits other than those used in selection is referred to as correlated response. The objective of this study was to estimate from experimental data the genetic correlations between reproductive and maternal traits of beef females and growth and carcass traits of paternal half-sib steers. A more detailed account of the methodology and results can be found in the Journal of Animal Science, volume 58, pages 1171 to 1180