Investigations on the possibilities of reindeer breeding II

Authors

• Mikko Varo Department of Animal Breeding, University of Helsinki

DOI: https://doi.org/10.23986/afsci.71829

Abstract

The net increase in the weight of the reindeer calves has been during the first summer 35 and 40 kg and the second 17 and 25 kg for the females and males, respectively. There are genetic differences in the development of the weights and measures of the young reindeer. These differences can be utilized in improving the productivity by breeding. Also the change in weight during the winter season seems to be an inheritable feature. The sum of the body length and the chest girth, or the combined measure, looks like being the most useful basis for selection.