Quantitative trait loci mapping for growth and wool traits in Australian Merino Sheep

Abstract

In recent decades, molecular biology techniques have made it possible to construct comprehensive marker maps in different species which allow mapping of QTL influencing economically important traits. In animal breeding, genomic research and selection based on QTL can improve the accuracy and efficiency of genetic improvement, and potentially lead to higher genetic gain through genotype, marker assisted selection (GAS & MAS) and introgression (Dekkers and Hospital., 2002). This study reports the genome scan for QTL affecting growth and wool traits in Merino sheep. This study is part of a project in the University of New England (UNE), which has been founded by AWI (Australian Wool Innovation) aimed at identifying QTL, responsible for parasite resistance and production traits.