Genetic Evaluation for Australian Sheep - Expanding the foundation

Summary

In this project the Animal Genetics and Breeding Unit (AGBU) conducted research and development for OVIS, the software program used to estimate the breeding values for Sheep Genetics (SG) between July 2006 and June 2010. Research and development focused on the definition and delivery of the genetic evaluation for SG. The major outcome of this project has been to facilitate more accurate selection of breeding animals for the Australian sheep flock. This has been achieved by producing more accurate breeding values for a greater range of traits in a timelier manner. Additional outputs, including breeding value accuracy, inbreeding coefficients and selection indexes assist to improve selection accuracy.
As part of the SG development process the genetic evaluation system was scientifically scrutinised by a technical committee consisting of leading sheep geneticists from across Australia. This process included:   Comparison of alternative models for existing and new traits and the testing and implementation of new models.   Investigations into genetic group allocation and development and implementation of alternative methods.   Updating variance components and adjustment factors for all breeds.   Development of new reporting software.   Implementing new systems for routine evaluation. Development of OVIS occurred continually including; the addition of new traits, extra reporting functions, diagnostic tools and accommodating changes in data and clients. These enhancements and other process implemented by industry have enabled annual genetic progress to increase in all breeds.
Results from research were presented in peer reviewed scientific papers, conference contributions, newsletter articles, information forums and at field-days with breeders. The software engine to generate SheepObject indexes from OVIS breeding values is in place. Indexes are being routinely generated from OVIS analyses, but there are currently no SheepObject indexes among the standards. The ability to develop customised indexes for individual procedures is now in place with an integrated web interface available. Results show that customised indexes are robust and mostly highly correlated with standard indexes given the wide range of production systems and sheep enterprises catered for.