ILC Feature
the selection program, standard of breeds
and all other matters regarding their breed.
Until 2000, the selection work was based on
weights of animals (growth potential) and
observing the calving and birth weight of
calves. In 2000, breeding values (BV) were
published for the first time. Estimation of BV is
published for bulls, cows and calves four times
per year. Estimation of BV is made separately
for paternal (direct) and maternal effect.
The national system of testing bulls for
breeding is carried out at performance test
stations. Only the bulls from selected mothers
and fathers can enter the performance test
station – bull-calves born from assortative
matings of bull-dams x bull-sires. The bull as
well as his parents must fulfill the criteria of
the selection program. Inspectors of the Czech
Beef Breeders Association supervise that the
bulls are bred and fattened according to the
correct testing methods. They also measure
and weigh the bulls before they enter the
station, during the test and at the end of
the test period. At the age of 13 months the
test ends and on the basis of performance,
breeding values, exterior and fulfilment of
breed standard, a panel of breeders selects the
bulls. During the past two years the average
daily gain during the test period is between
1,600–1,800 grams, in many cases even higher.
Annually about 9,500 bull-calves are born in the
Czech Republic and about 1,000 best bulls are
selected for natural service and insemination.
Contacts
Český svaz chovatelů masného skotu
(Czech Beef Cattle Association)
Těšnov 17, 110 00 Praha 1,
Czech Republic
phone: +420 221 812 865
email: [email protected]
www.cschms.cz - www.beefcattle.
cz – www.limousin.cz I
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