Joint German-Austrian-Czech Single-Step Evaluation for Fitness Traits of Fleckvieh and Brown-Swiss cattle

Single-Step is currently the most advanced genomic evaluation method in populations with incomplete genotyping. Nevertheless, routine implementation in cattle, especially in populations with massive genotype data, is a major challenge. In the joint German-Austrian genetic evaluation consortium, the Single-Step methodology was introduced in April 2021 for the Fleckvieh and Brown Swiss breeds for almost the entire range of traits. In this paper, methodological aspects of the implementation for fitness traits are presented. Due to the central importance in the development work, strategies and experiences in the validation of genomic breeding values are highlighted. Finally, current development work on novel fitness traits as well as on the further development of the Single-Step methodology is presented.

Automated summary

Single-Step is the most advanced genomic evaluation method in populations with incomplete genotyping. Implementing it in cattle, especially in populations with massive genotype data, is a major challenge. The German-Austrian genetic evaluation consortium introduced the Single-Step methodology in April 2021 for the Fleckvieh and Brown Swiss breeds, covering a wide range of traits. This paper presents the methodological aspects and highlights the strategies and experiences in validating genomic breeding values for fitness traits. It also discusses the current development work on novel fitness traits and the further development of the Single-Step methodology.