Genetic parameters for average daily gain and Kleiber ratio in Limousine breed

Abstract The objective of the current paper was to estimate the genetic parameters for average daily gain from 200 days to 365 days and Kleiber ratio in Limousine breed with maternal animal model. The data were represented by performances of 871 Limousine fattening cattle/bulls represented by a mix of bulls and heifers. The pedigree consisted in 1865 cattle: 124 sires, 870 dams and 871 fattening cattle/bulls with performances. The data was provided by the Romanian Breeding Association for Beef Cattle, following results from the performances recordings. The direct breeding value of cattle was from −0.306 to 0. 366 kg for average daily gain between 200 days and 365 days, and maternal breeding value between −0.177 to 0.131. The direct breeding value of cattle for Kleiber ratio was between −0.271 and 0.264, and maternal breeding value were between −0.237 and 0.172. The direct heritability for average daily gain from 200 to 365 days was 0.661, the maternal heritability 0.253 and the total heritability 0.663. The direct heritability for Kleiber ratio was 0.507, the maternal heritability 0.364 and total heritability 0.504.