Semen selection
HIGH FORAGE HERD SIRE SELECTION 2004/05
Semen selection in the forage herd has mainly concentrated on yield and functional type while maintaining constituents. Future targets now include increasing the milk constituent content of the herd, while maintaining yield at around 8000 litres. In addition, all bulls selected are CVM free to avoid any potential problems with this recessive genetic mutation.
The selection criteria for semen in 2004/05 and bulls to be used are listed below. All values are PTA2000 based, with figures from August 2004. The criteria are used as a guideline, but if a bull is considered strong in very desirable areas, then a slight slippage in others can be accepted.
| Criteria | Misty | Promise* | Pericles | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Milk (kg) | 250 - 350 | 322 | 341 | 514 |
| Fat % | >0 | 0.25 | 0.40 | 0.17 |
| Protein % | >0 | 0.16 | 0.15 | 0.06 |
| Legs & Feet | 1.0 | 0.54 | 1.15 | 0.10 |
| SCC | <0 | -1 | 2 | -16 |
| Reliability % | >70 | 87 | 85 | 88 |
* Promise for use on heifers
