Genetic parameters for growth traits of Romanian Teleorman Black Head Tsigai sheep

• Published in: Indian journal of animal sciences 2013-11, Vol.83 (11)
• Main Authors: PELMUS, RODICA STEFANIA, PISTOL, GINA CECILIA, LAZAR, CRISTINA, GROSU, HORIA, GRAS, MIHAIL ALEXANDRU, GHITA, ELENA
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0367-8318; 2394-3327
• DOI: 10.56093/ijans.v83i11.34770

Estimation of genetic parameters for the local sheep for growth traits is necessary to estimate breeding value of the animals and to determine the breeding objectives. The purpose of this study was to estimate genetic parameters for lamb weight at different age and for average daily weight gain in a local Teleorman Black Head Tsigai population. Records of 545 lambs coming from 210 ewes and 18 rams, were used. Body weight at birth, 30 days and 60 days; the average daily weight gain from birth to 30 days, from 30 to 60 days and from birth to 60 days, were analized. The restricted maximum likelihood method with a model including the maternal genetic effects was used to estimate the genetic parameters. The results revealed that direct and total heritability estimates were low for body weight at 30 days, moderate for birth weight, body weight at 60 days while high for average daily gain from birth to 30 days, 30 days to 60 days and birth to 60 days. The maternal heritability estimates were low for body weight at birth, 30 days and 60 days and moderate for average daily gain from birth to 30 days, 30 days to 60 days and birth to 60 days.