Covariance functions and random regression models for cow weight in beef cattle.

Abstract excerpt

Data from the first four cycles of the Germplasm Evaluation program at the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center were used to evaluate weights of Angus, Hereford, and F1 cows produced by crosses of 22 sire and 2 dam (Angus and Hereford) breeds. Four weights per year were available for cows from 2 through 8 yr of age (AY) with age in months (AM). Weights (n = 61,798) were analyzed with REML using covariance...

Topics

• Age Factors
• Analysis of Variance
• Animals
• Body Weight
• Cattle
• Crosses, Genetic
• Environment
• Female
• Genetic Variation
• Lactation
• Likelihood Functions
• Linear Models