Estimation of Genetic Capacity of Simmental Dual Purpose Cattle for Milk and Conformation Traits in High Arid Climate

The aim of the current research was to estimate the genetic parameters for milk and conformation traits in Simmental dual-purpose cattle breed. Heritability estimates were 21% for milk yield while body type traits were 26, 13, 10, 28, 20, 35, 6 and 33% for BW, BCS, CL, CW, BD, ST, rump and HG, respectively. Repeatability estimates were all moderate and high for FCM 305 day milk yields, body and udder conformational traits. The BW and HG had positive, high and significant genetic correlation with 305 d FCM. The genetic correlation between 305 d FCM and CL was positive, moderate and significant. The Rump and BD had the highest and significant genetic correlation between body type traits. All the udder conformation traits had positive, high and significant genetic correlation with 305 d FCM except of udder clearance. Current results suggest that selection for conformation traits will translate into increased milk in Simmental cattle.