Estimation of direct and maternal covariance along with genetic and phenotypic trends of reproduction traits in Murrah buffalo

Abstract

AbstractThe research utilized data from 662 Murrah buffaloes meticulously recorded over 24 years (1996–2019) from historical pedigree sheets maintained at the buffalo farm of the Department of Livestock Production and Management (LPM) at Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (LUVAS), Hisar. A series of six univariate animal models were employed to calculate estimates of (co)variance components and heritability for first lactation reproduction traits. Among these models, Model 2 was identified as the best fit for age at first calving (AFC) and calving interval (CI), while Model 1 proved optimal for service period (SP) and conception rate (CR). The heritability estimates for AFC, SP, CR and CI across the models were ranged between 0.11 and 0.32, 0.01 and 0.03, 0.05 and 0.06, and 0.01 and 0.06, respectively. Maternal effects (m2) were observed in AFC and CI, ranging from 0.10 to 0.20 and 0.01 to 0.03, respectively. Across all three traits, there was a consistent negative genetic correlation (−0.75 to −0.92) between direct additive and maternal effects. The breeding values for AFC, SP, CR and CI varied within specific ranges from −32.85 to 44.33 days, −15.61 to 28.42 days, −7.41 to 6.48% and −20.64 to 35.79 days, respectively. Significantly, Spearman's rank correlation analysis revealed highly significant relationships (p < .01) between the breeding values of different models, indicating strong and consistent associations within these traits. These findings underscore the stable and reliable connections observed within the breeding values for these essential reproductive traits across the various models used in the study. The majority of reproductive traits showed favourable negative trends, indicating a positive outcome. A decrease in AFC, SP and CI suggests an extended economic life for the animals. Additionally, the upward trends in CR reflect positive indications of effective management practices and skilled operational procedures.