Genomic-based genetic parameters for milkability traits derived from automatic milking systems in North American Holstein cattle

Genomic Selection for Dairy Cattle Behaviour Considering Novel Traits in a Changing Technical Production Environment

“…In AMS, dairy cows meet new challenges that may necessitate the re-evaluation of existing traits or the integration of new traits into breeding indices. Dense phenotypic records from each AMS visit generate a longitudinal data structure for novel traits, which can be used to genetically improve the production efficiency in dairy farms [63]. Furthermore, AMSs provide the possibility to derive behaviour traits associated with cow robot performance, milking behaviour, and temperament [64].…”

“…Nervousness and kicking off the milking device prolong the handling time and decrease the cow's efficiency [64]. Pedrosa et al [63] introduced the trait 'milking refusal' as a further indicator for cow temperament and learning behaviour. Milking refusal means that a cow is not allowed to be milked because the expected milk yield is too low.…”

“…Milking refusal means that a cow is not allowed to be milked because the expected milk yield is too low. A certain number of refusals per cow is considered to be normal and is caused by the animals' adaptation to the AMS [63].…”

Editorial: Application of genomics in livestock populations under selection or conservation

“…Given that these articles are interesting and timely, we agree that there is still scope for improvement in incorporating genomics Research Topic for the selection of complex traits, i.e., the selection for traits with low heritability and disease resistance in farm animals and other species. High-throughput phenotyping or phenomics and precision farming are such tools that are being applied along with genomics in most advanced countries for livestock breeding programs ( Pedrosa et al, 2023 ). We sincerely hope that a future Research Topic on genomics may well embrace many other emerging areas within genomics, i.e., phenomics, epigenomics, and metagenomics, utilized not only for genetic improvement programs but also for the sustainability of livestock production systems.…”

Editorial: Lactation genomics and phenomics in farm animals: Where are we at?

“…In advanced countries, high-throughput phenotyping is a reality in dairy farming. For example, large dairy farms or operations have adopted automatic milking systems capable of massive recording of phenotypes ( Pedrosa et al, 2023 ). Precision livestock farming tools are being developed and used to collect detailed, in-depth, and high-through measurements about animal productivity, health, environmental efficiency, and welfare and their environments in or near real-time.…”