Comparing conventional and genomic breeding programs with ZPLAN+

Abstract

Genomic enhanced breeding values have been established in practical breeding programs. The results are already integrated in the practical work. Based on these new techniques, todays breeding programs will be structured differently in the near future. Aim of this study was a comparison of three alternative breeding programs using the new software ZPLAN+. The first program was a progeny test system, as already used in conventional breeding programs (CS). The second alternative was a system strictly based on genomic information without preposed progeny tests (GS). The third system was a mixture of genomic information and partial progeny tests (MS). Following parameters were calculated and compared: generation intervals, genetic gain, total return of the breeding program, breeding costs and profit. Generation intervals were 5.02, 3.44 and 4.64 years (CS, GS and MS). The discounted return per year was 49.1 € (CS), 155.25 € (GS) and 88.53 € (MS). Regarding breeding costs (8.42 €; 1.13 € and 4.30 €) per realisation unit (1 cow) remaining profit of 47.46 € (CS), 155.26 € (GS) and 87.59 € (MS) per realisation unit and year could be obtained. The classical system was clearly inferior compared to systems based on genomic selection. The system using genomic information only was superior to the combined system and it is assumed that these systems will be implemented regarding long term cattle breeding.