Single Step | NAV - Nordic Cattle Genetic Evaluation

NAV Evaluation

06/05/2025 by Terhi Vahlsten

The second NAV routine evaluation this year took place as scheduled. The NAV Bull Search has been updated with the new EBV’s and GEBV’s. NAV Beef Search is also updated with new beef x dairy breeding values.

In this evaluation single step method was introduced for yield traits and it replaces the so called two step method. Single step uses all information from genotyped and non-genotyped animals simultaneously. The introduction of single step method has caused changes to the yield index. In general, the changes are small but for some animals the changes are more significant. Because yield has the highest weight in NTM, changes in yield index has a large affect on NTM.

In this evaluation NAV introduces the first methane index. It is calculated for Holstein bulls born after 2008 and they need to be genomic tested in the Nordic system and has paid the Nordic fee or has official NTM and minimum of 10 daughters with methane observations. The results can be found on the NAV homepage.

NAV Beef evaluation

05/11/2024 by Terhi Vahlsten

NAV has released breeding values for purebred beef bulls and cows. Beef breeding values are updated to NAV Beef Search.

In this evaluation genomic breeding values for weight/growth and carcass traits were published for the five main breeds (Aberdeen Angus, Charolais, Hereford, Limousin, Simmental). For other traits and breeds, breeding values are based on phenotypic information.

In NAV Beef Search it is possible to search after genomic proven animals, and the genomic status is also shown on animal’s own page whether the animal is genomic proven or not.

NAV Evaluation

05/11/2024 by Terhi Vahlsten

The fourth NAV routine evaluation this year took place as scheduled. NAV Bull Search has been updated with the new EBV’s and GEBV’s.

In this evaluation single step method was introduced for fertility and it replaces the so called two step method. Single step uses all information from genotyped and non-genotyped animals simultaneously.

In the calculation of conformation indices, the breed averages have been updated for all breeds, and that especially affects the frame index for all breeds. For Holstein the weights and optimum in the udder index have been changed.

NAV Evaluation

07/05/2024 by Terhi Vahlsten

In this evaluation single step method was introduced for milkability and it replaces the so called two step method. Single step uses all information from genotyped and non-genotyped animals simultaneously. Read more from the paper Improved breeding values for Milkability.

Results from two new genetic traits were added to NAV Bull Search. BLIRD for Holstein and JNS for Jersey. More information about genetic traits is found on NAV homepage.

NAV Evaluation

07/05/202406/02/2024 by Terhi Vahlsten

The first NAV routine evaluation this year took place as scheduled. The NAV Bull Search has been updated with the new EBV’s and GEBV’s. NAV Beef Search is also updated with new beef x dairy breeding values.

In the dairy cattle evaluation single step method was introduced for growth and it replaces the so called two step method. Single step uses all information from genotyped and non-genotyped animals simultaneously. The RDC yield evaluation is improved with several modifications and more will follow in the future.