Prediction of gross feed efficiency in Italian Holstein Friesian bulls

The aim of this study was to predict gross feed efficiency of Italian Holstein Friesian bulls selected for production, functional and type traits. A total of 12,238 bulls, from April 2015 genetic evaluation, were used. Predicted daily gross feed efficiency (pFE) was obtained as ratio between milk yield (MY) and predicted dry matter intake (pDMI). Phenotypic trend for MY, predicted body weight (pBW) and pFE were calculated by the bull birth year. The results suggest that pFE can be successfully selected to increase profitability of dairy cattle using the current milk recording system. Direct measurements on DMI should be considered to confirm results of pFE obtained in the present study