Higher Heritability Estimates for Fat and Muscle Depth Obtained Using the PorkScan™ System

Abstract

Fat and muscle depth are important characteristics that determine the market value of a pig carcase. Pig breeding programs often consider these traits using ultrasound information recorded on the live animal, since information on selection candidates prior to selection is beneficial for genetic gain. However, as payment systems are based on carcase measures, estimates of genetic relationships between selection criteria recorded on the live pig and carcase traits are required. The PorkScan™ (PorkScan Pty Ltd, Canberra, ACT) system, developed in Australia, provides accurate ultrasound information about carcase fat and muscle depth and to date genetic parameters have not been available for these traits. It was hypothesized that fat and muscle depth recorded with PorkScan™ on the carcase are heritable and are genetically associated with fat and muscle depth recorded on the live pig with real time ultrasound.