In the Nellore Breed Genetic Improvement Program (PMGRN) the breeding value predictions of five different traits are put together in a single number named Total Genetic Merit (MGT). This number is calculated from the Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs) of: weight at 120 days of age - maternal; weight at 120, 365 and 450 days of age direct; and scrotal circumference at 365 and 450 days of age direct. The aim of this study was to identify and to describe the change in the MGT of bulls when information on their progenies are used. Twelve sires were selected, from a total database of 29,759 records, generating three files containing: individual performance; individual performance plus progeny performance; and individual performance plus progeny and grandprogeny performance. Single analyses were performed for all traits utilizing MTDFREML software (Multiple Traits Derivative Free Restricted Maximum Likelihood). The fixed effects (contemporary groups and cow age at calving) and the random effects (direct, maternal and permanent environmental) were included in the model for growth traits up to one year of age. The same fixed effects were included in the model for scrotal circumference traits and for body weight taken after one year of age and the direct effects as random effects. When the offspring data were added, ranking changes were achieved between classes at most in two positions. When grandprogerny were added, no changes were found.
genetic parameters; genetic value; selection index; ranking; Nellore
