Correlation between Economic Breeding Index and Somatic Cell Count on Irish Dairy Farms

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.