Introduction to KIDPLAN
Introduction to KIDPLAN
Through the use of pedigree and performance information, KIDPLAN provides simple, practical information on the value of an animal’s genes for production in the form of estimated breeding values (EBVs) and specialised indexes. Only KIDPLAN provides a benchmarking system that allows breeders to track the level of improvement in the genetic makeup of their herd.
Estimated Breeding Values
EBVs allow you to evaluate an animal’s genetic potential for a range of traits that directly impact on the profitability of your goat production enterprise. KIDPLAN provides flexibility enabling goat breeders to concentrate on the traits considered important to their breeding objective and the requirements of their clients.
EBVs are available for the following production traits: growth/weight, carcase (fat and eye muscle depth), reproduction and worm egg counts allowing Boer and meat goat producers to maximise profits.
EBVs are calculated from an analysis of pedigree and performance information contained in the KIDPLAN database. EBVs accurately identify the value of an animal’s genes by utilising three sources of information:
- Performance measurements (including performance of all relatives)
- Knowledge of environmental factors affecting performance
- Knowledge of how strongly different traits are inherited (heritability)
Goat Genetic Improvement
The Boer goat has demonstrated superior growth rates and carcase traits compared to the feral goat. Together with fertility and resistance to disease these traits have a marked impact on profitability and can be improved through genetic selection.
Genetically superior bucks on average produce:
- Kids that grow quicker - reducing time to slaughter
- Kids that meet carcase specification
- Daughters with higher milking potential and greater fertility
Genetically superior does on average produce:
- More kids
- Kids with higher growth rates
- Kids with higher carcase weight and value
Does with higher maternal weaning weights provide goat breeders with more opportunity to produce Capretto carcases. As a result of successful breeding programs Boer goats are now on average faster growing, leaner and better muscled.
Indexes
When a breeding objective requires emphasis to be placed on more than one trait, a selection index is used to give a combined EBV for the key traits involved. There are two indexes available for goat producers, the Boer Goat $ Index and the Carcase Plus Index.
For more information contact KIDPLAN.
Ph: (02) 8055 1818
info@sheepgenetics.org.au
All information on this page is credit to Sheep Genetics.
