The ability of video image analysis to predict lean meat yield and EUROP score of lamb carcasses.

A total of 862 lamb carcasses that were evaluated by both the VIAscan® and the current EUROP classification system were deboned and the actual yield was measured. Models were derived for predicting lean meat yield of the legs (Leg%), loin (Loin%) and shoulder (Shldr%) using the best VIAscan® variables selected by stepwise regression analysis of a calibration data set (n=603). The equations were tested on validation data set (n=259).

Multiple trait genetic evaluation of ewe traits in Icelandic sheep.

The prolificacy of the ewes was measured as the number of lambs born per ewe mated (NLB) when the ewes were 1-4 years of age. The ewe productivity related to the same age interval was measured by special ewe production indices (EPI). The genetic parameters for these traits were estimated by a series of bivariate REML analyses using animal models.

Brown coat color in Icelandic cattle produced by the loci Extension and Agouti.

Inheritance of the colors black, brown, and red in Icelandic cattle was studied. The three colors are produced by two loci, Extension (E) and Agouti (A), with three alleles at the E locus: E(d) for dominant black; E+, intermediate, which allows expression of A locus alleles; and e for recessive red color. Two alleles are postulated at the A locus: A+, producing brown, and a, producing recessive black (nonagouti) when homozygous in E+/- animals.

Associations between the bovine major histocompatibility complex (BoLA) and milk production in Icelandic dairy cattle.

Associations between BoLA type and milk production were investigated using information from 80 Icelandic cattle from four dairy farms in Iceland. The specificity w6 reduced milk, fat and protein yield. Although w6 has been shown to be associated with increased susceptibility to mastitis, there is no evidence to suggest that the reduced yields here were due to mastitis.