Table1. Conformation traits in Interbull genetic evaluations for Holstein as defined by the World Holstein Friesian Federation (WHFF); other possible trait definition also included |
Trait |
WHFF trait definition |
Other possible definition |
1. Stature |
Measured from top of the spine in between hips to ground |
wither height |
2. Chest width |
Measured from inside surface between the top of the front legs |
strength |
3. Body Depth |
Distance between the top of spine and bottom of barrel at last rib – the deepest point. Independent of stature. |
depth of chest |
4. Angularity |
The angle and openness of the ribs, combined with flatness of bone avoidingcoarseness. Not a true linear trait. |
dairy character; dairy form |
5. Rump Angle |
Measured as the angle of the rump structure from hooks (hips) to pins. |
|
6. Rump Width |
The distance between the most posterior point of pin bones |
distance between hips/thurls |
7. Rear Leg set |
Direction of feet when view from the rear. |
|
8. Rear Leg Rear View |
Angle measured at the front of the hock |
|
9. Foot Angle |
Angle at the front of the rear hoof measured from the floor to the hairline atthe right hoof |
foot diagonal; |
10. Fore Udder |
The strength of attachment of the fore udder to the abdominal wall.Not a true linear trait. |
|
11. Rear Udder Height |
The distance between the bottom of the vulva and the milk secreting tissue:in relation to the height of the animal. |
distance between |
12. Udder Support |
The depth of cleft, measured at the base of the rear udder. |
central ligament; |
13. Udder Depth |
The distance from the lowest part of the udder floor to the hock. |
|
14. Teat Placement |
The position of the front teat from centre of quarter. |
|
15. Teat Length |
The length of the front teat. |
|
16. Overall Conformation |
|
final score; final class |
17. Overall udder score |
|
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18. Overall feet&leg score |
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