SUMMARY OF ARTICLE

ABSTRACT

The identification of indicator traits and their subsequent use in practical selection necessitates a thorough understanding of the phenotypic and genetic relationships of these traits with production and functional traits of interest. The fat-protein ratio (FPR) is one component of milk traits having a great potential in determining the energy balance of an animal, particularly during post-partum period. It has been found to be associated with different important diseases such as mastitis, metabolic disorder like ketosis and also affecting the fertility of an animal. The FPR of milk has been observed to have high heritability and genetic correlation with milk yield, indicating that the potential production performance of animal can be determined using the fat-protein ratio. It had also been suggested that selection of animals for future reproduction can be assisted using the FPR since the animal's fertility and ovulation rate can be anticipated from it. Thus, if applied precisely, the FPR method may be a useful diagnostic tool for assessment of energy balance, animal health and production potential. Thus, it is expected that the fat to protein ratio would be used for the identification and selection of dairy animals in the future.