Comparing single-trait and multi-trait analyses incorporating breech and body strike records to improve flystrike prediction accuracy in Australian Merino sheep

2026-07

Dehnavi, E

Swan, A A

Swain, B C

Smith, J L

Ramsay, A M M

Burbidge, G

Greeff, J C

Bird-gardiner, T L

Brown, D J

Conference Publication

en

Publication

Australian Association of Animal Sciences

Adelaide, Australia

une:1959.11/74830

Accurate genetic evaluation of flystrike resistance in Merino sheep is limited by low heritability and recording challenges. Combining information across related traits and time points, such as breech and body strike at early (EBRS and EBDS) and late (LBRS and LBDS) age stages, can improve prediction accuracy by exploiting genetic correlations and increasing the amount of information available for each trait. Therefore, a multi-trait approach is expected to enhance precision in genetic evaluation and support sustainable improvement in strike resistance. This study compares single-trait and multi-trait analyses (EBRS, LBRS, EBDS and LBDS) using flystrike records to assess their impact on prediction accuracy and bias.

link

Proceedings of the 36th Biennial Conference of the Australian Association of Animal Sciences, v.36, p. 24-24

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