GENETIC IMPROVEMENT RESULTS

An easy way to measure genetic improvement is to plot the average value over time. This measure is known as genetic trend. A key selection tool in the Genesus genetic program is the Sire Line Index (SLI) and Dam Line Index (DLI). Indexes simply combine EBV for the key economic traits into one value based on their relative economic merit. The sire line indexes are used for traits important in slaughter pigs while the dam line index emphasizes traits important for replacement gilts. The

Duroc Terminal line is selected using the SLI and the Landrace and Yorkshire maternal lines using the DLI. As shown in the following graphs, Genesus has made steady, annual progress in the key economic traits.