Genetic aspects of growth and carcass quality in veal calves

Abstract

SUMMARYGenetic parameters of veal calves were estimated from data on 510 Danish Red male calves by 39 sires.Heritability estimates for the growth and carcass traits were low, those for body dimensions and dressing percentage high.Correlations between the growth and carcass traits indicated no genetic incompatibility in selection.The problem of achieving simultaneous improvement in the dairy, carcass and growth qualities is discussed. It is suggested that the adoption of performance testing for growth and carcass quality prior to the entry of bulls into AI service, followed by progeny testing for milk and fat yields, would provide the best method of genetic improvement.