The predicted responses to genomic selection in growing pigs

Abstract

<p>The responses to genomic selection in breeding programs for growing pigs were predicted using a selection index approach. Genomic selection increased overall predicted response by 2.6 (500 reference population) to 27.8% (5000 reference population) for a breeding objective consisting of backfat thickness (BFT), average daily gain (ADG), post-weaning survival (PWS) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) in growing pigs . Predicted response in PWS increased by 147% with genomic selection (5000 reference population) at the expense of the other traits like BFT, ADG, and FCR which had 14.5, 1.6, and 2.8% less genetic gain compared to the response in a conventional breeding program without genomic selection. The higher loss in genetic gain for BFT was due to a stronger genetic correlation with FCR in comparison to ADG. The predicted additional responses in the breeding objective is a guideline for the implementation of genomic selection in pig breeding programs.</p>