The aim of this paper is to investigate across country genetic correlations of conformation traits of 21 Holstein bull populations, using cluster analysis. Data consisted of across country genetic correlations of 18 conformation traits estimated by Interbull for the April 2011 routine genetic evaluation. For cluster analysis, the distance measure (dij) between countries i and j was calculated as dij=1-rG2ij, where rGij is the genetic correlation between countries i and j. Traits showed different mean distances with the lowest value for udder depth (0.062) and the highest for locomotion (0.441). For traits with similar definition further investigation is needed to understand differences within cluster. Also, more attention needs to be paid to countries that define or record traits differently from what is suggested by World Holstein Friesian Federation.

conformation traits; dairy international evaluation; genetic correlations; cluster analysis

Published by University of Zagreb, Faculty of Agriculture, Zagreb, CROATIA
Sponsored by Ministry Science and Education of the Republic of Croatia