GENERATION INTERVAL

Generation interval is the average age of parents at birth of their progeny.

 Younger the parents are

 

Smaller the generation interval will be

 

 

Better will be the genetic gain

Rams generate the greater part of the genetic gain.

Aim for shorter generation interval for rams compare to ewes.

  • Aim replacement rate of 100% for ram / year

  • Aim to keep top 10% index within males evaluated
  • Aim rams at breeding < 1 year old
  • Average rams’ age at lambing < 2 years old

Some strategies can be used to sold young proven rams to other breeders or commercial flocks

 

 

  • Aim minimum replacement rate of 25 – 30% for ewes / year

  • Aim to keep top 40% index of females
  • Aim to breed ewes < 2.5 years old in average
  • Aim an average age of ewes at lambing  < 3 years old

By shorting generation interval, breeders may do major improvement on genetic gain.