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Predictability of Testicular Traits in Young and Mature Holstein Bulls Reared Under Different Systems

Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853

ABSTRACT

Scrotal circumference and testicular consistency of Holstein bulls were measured in seven bull studs for 5 to 7 yr. Correlations between scrotal circumference of 160 young bulls (12 to 23 mo and 24 to 35 mo) and this trait at maturity (60 to 71 mo of age) were .48 and .56 and for the combination of the two early measurements with those at maturity .58. Testicular consistency of 116 bulls measured at the same time intervals gave corresponding values of .38, .44, and .50. By introducing a quadratic component the latter was increased to .69. Measurements first made on additional groups of bulls when they were more than 35 mo of age also were correlated closely with the values for these traits when bulls were mature, but the information on young bulls is of greater operational significance for early decisions. Correlations between measurements at different time intervals on bulls reared individually versus those grouped by age and reared in loose housing were similar. Therefore, the difference in social interaction provided by the two systems apparently did not alter the pattern or degree of testicular development.

¹ Agriculture Canada Research Station, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada T1J-4B1.