G. Mészáros

23994075900

Publications - 1

Longevity analysis of the Pannon White rabbit does

Publication Name: Livestock Science

Publication Date: 2026-05-01

Volume: 307

Issue: Unknown

Page Range: Unknown

Description:

The aim of this study was to analyse the number of kindlings of Pannon White rabbit does, to get information about the risk factors affecting their reproductive performance success and to evaluate the suitability of this trait as a possible selection criterion. The pedigree information was supplied by the experimental farm of the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, who is responsible for the maintenance of the Pannon White rabbit breed. Total kindling number of 3371 Pannon White rabbit does born from 2000 up to 2022 were used in the analysis. Year-season and number of kits born alive were considered as fixed time dependent effects in the model and they both were significant (P < 0.001). The genetic variance was estimated to calculate the heritability for longevity. To demonstrate the extent of differences within the population, the ten best and worst bucks were compared based on the estimated risk of culling to check genetic differences. As number of kits born alive increased, the culling risk for this parameter decreased. After adjusting for the fixed effects, the estimated heritability of the total kindling number was h2 = 0.14 (s.e. 0.034). The offspring of ten best and ten worst bucks were compared, revealing convincing evidence of principle that selection on this trait has a potential to improve the longevity of the Pannon White rabbits.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2026.105935