| dc.description.abstract | The objective of this study was to investigate the correlation between the Economic Breeding
Index (EBI) and Somatic Cell Count (SCC) on Irish Dairy farms. The EBI plays a pivotal role
in improving the genetic merit and profitability of Irish dairy herds. Somatic Cell count is a
key contributor to herd health and can affect the longevity of cows in the dairy herd. Data was
collected from fifteen Irish dairy farms participating in milk recording programs and then
statistical analysis was carried out looking at herd EBI, health sub index within the EBI,
somatic cell count, parity and milk yield. This type of research is important to determine
whether or not EBI is continuing to develop favourable phenotypes for the Irish dairy industry. | en_US |
