ACGA Merritt: Cashmere estimated breeding value program phase 2

  • 23 pages

  • Published: 30 Apr 2012

  • Author(s): James, A. T.

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ACGA Merrrit is a performance recording scheme that analyses individual animal records from herds across Australia and calculates estimated breeding values (EBVs).  EBVs are an estimate of the animals genetic worth free of any confounding effect of environment, location or year. As such they are a valuable tool for animal breeders and help to accelerate the rate of genetic gain in a flock.
Fine Australian cashmere is the softest and warmest of the commercially available textile fibres.  The Australian cashmere was first domesticated from the feral herd in the 1970’s. It is hardy, robust and highly fertile.  However, cashmere productivity per head is low. As a result, expansion of the industry is severely limited by the low productivity and low profitability of average cashmeres.
This RIRDC report should be carefully considered by current cashmere growers and by those considering entering the industry. It also has important implications for policy makers and for fibre and textile businesses, in that it is likely that Australia will become a significant producer of cashmere if the outcomes of this research are fully extended to industry.