Population structure and genetic and phenotypic trends of Guzera in Northeast of Brazil

Abstract

The aim of this work was to evaluate the relationship of the population structure with the observed genetic progress for growth traits to Guzera beef cattle raised in the Northeast Region of Brazil. Pedigree data and weights adjusted to 205; 365 and 550 days of age of animals born from 1976 to 2007 were used. The intervals of generations per gamete passage were: 7.54.5 (Father-Son), 7.94.8 (Father-Daughter), 7.84.2 (Mother-Son), 7,93.9 (Mother-Daughter), with a mean interval of 7.9±4.4 years. The inbreeding coefficient showed the greatest growth from the second to the seventh generation, when increased from 0.17% to 2.06%, however, the average inbreeding in inbred animals decreased from 15.66% to 6.75% during the same period. The effective size presented values between 197 and 674 and along with the low inbreeding, they evidenced great potential for genetic gain. The generation interval was high, recommending the use of young bulls for decrease this interval and increase the genetic gains. The heritabilities indicate the possibility to reach genetic gains by selecting animals mainly for weights at 365 and 550 days of age. The significantly phenotypic gains should be attributed to improvements in the environment.