Prediction of breeding values for group-recorded traits including genomic information and an individually recorded correlated trait

This study investigated the use of genomic information and a correlated trait with individual records to improve the accuracy of genetic evaluation for group-recorded traits. Using simulated pig data and three group structure scenarios, the results showed that both genomic information and a correlated trait increased the accuracy of estimated breeding values (EBVs). Smaller group sizes and closer relationships between individuals within groups led to higher accuracy. The study suggests that group records are valuable for traits difficult to measure individually, and that genomic information significantly improves accuracy, especially when combined with correlated individual traits.

Xiang Ma, Ole F. Christensen, Hongding Gao, Ruihua Huang, Bjarne Nielsen, Per Madsen, Just Jensen, Tage Ostersen, Pinghua Li, Mahmoud Shirali, Guosheng Su