Genetic Parameter Estimation for Pregnancy Loss and Their Association With Reproductive and Growth Traits in Brahman Cattle Under Extensive Tropical Conditions

Abstract

This study estimated genetic parameters for pregnancy loss (PL) in Brahman cattle and evaluated the genetic correlation of PL with growth and reproductive traits using both the pedigree relationship matrix (A) and pedigree plus genomic relationship matrix (H). Data were collected from two herds in Bolivia, focusing on three age groups: heifers, primiparous and multiparous cows. Threshold animal models were fitted to each group. Multitrait models were fitted between the PL at different age group and between PL and the following traits: adjusted weights at 450 (W450) and 550 (W550) days, scrotal circumference adjusted at 450 (SC450) and 550 (SC550) days, accumulated cow productivity (ACP), age at first calving (AFC) and stayability (STAY). The H matrix increased the heritability for PL in heifers from 0.06 to 0.11. The genetic correlation between PL in heifers and primiparous cows changed using H (from 0.18 to 0.7), and it was high between heifers and multiparous cows. Moderate-high negative genetic correlation was observed between PL and STAY, with changes in heifers when using H (-0.17 to -0.57). AFC and PL presented medium-high positive genetic correlations. Negative correlations between PL and SC450 or SC550 were found in primiparous and multiparous cows. Using H, the correlation between PL in heifers and ACP shifted from 0.08 to -0.31, showing medium-high negative correlations for the other two age groups. Genetic correlations were low between PL and W450 or W550. Genomic information allows the use of PL as a selection criterion in heifers. Selection for major sexual precocity, longevity and productivity would enable the reduction of pregnancy loss.