Selection for reduced methane emission in Norwegian Red cows

Offentlig prosjektsammendrag

The environmental footprint of dairy production can be reduced by genetic selection. This can be direct selection, with genetic evaluation based on methane (CH4) emission measures of individual cows or indirect selection using indicator traits, such as mid infrared (MIR) spectral data from milk samples. In this project we aim at working along both strategies. Before a new trait, like methane emission, can be considered included in the breeding goal research is needed to estimate genetic parameters for the population and validate reliability of genomic predicted breeding values. For this purpose will measures of methane production for individual cows be established in selected herds with milking robot. All cows will be genotyped. Based on this data we will estimate heritability of methane production in Norwegian Red, validate reliability of genomic breeding values, and estimate genetic correlations between methane production and important traits in the Norwegian Red breeding goal. Prediction equation for methane emission based on milk MIR spectral data will be derived and validated. The project will deliver the knowledge necessary to evaluate how methane emission best can be included in the Norwegian Red breeding goal, and whether it is possible to balance climate effects, milk production, health and fertility in a sustainable breeding goal.