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NZMW index New Zealand Maternal Worth is expressed in cents and is an estimate of
(previously DPO) genetic value for number of lambs born (DPR), lamb survival (DPS), lamb
growth + adult size (DPG+A), meat yield (DPM), and wool production (DPW).
Sub-indexes Economic merit for a trait affecting farm profit e.g. Wool (DPW) or
Reproduction (DPR)
NZGE The New Zealand Genetic Evaluation (NZGE) involves all active SIL flocks,
and non-active flocks that provide useful information on pedigree and
performance. It objectively “compares” the performance of various traits –
making it a powerful source of genetic information for commercial farmers.
Rank Ranks represent the position in the flock-birth year cohort of rams present
at weaning (for WWT eBV), at autumn LW (LW8 eBV), at scanning (meat trait
eBVs, NLB eBV & indexes) and at shearing (FW12 eBV).

INTRODUCING THE NEW ZEALAND GENETIC EVALUATION (NZGE)
This year, Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) Genetics has launched a $450,000 upgrade of
its genetic engine. As a result, ram buyers and breeders will have access to even better genetic
information, when making breeding decisions.

At the core of the upgrade is the move to a single weekly New Zealand Genetic Evaluation – the
NZGE. The investment means evaluations can be run more regularly and much faster, thereby
feeding information back to ram breeders in a more timely fashion.

The NZGE uses all relevant data available, in all SIL flocks. Evaluations are able to draw on
information, such as CT and VIA scanning, therefore providing a more accurate estimate of
traits, such as carcass merit.

Results are presented in a uniform way using the NZTW and NZMW indexes, allowing farmers
to directly compare rams. In a nutshell, the higher the figure, the better the ram.

SIL CONTACT DETAILS
For more information, contact SIL via email (silhelp@sil.co.nz) or freephone 0800 745 435.
SIL is part of B+LNZ Genetics and is funded by farmer levies.

PLEASE NOTE: B+LNZ Genetics have used the most recent SIL data on file in
preparation of this catalogue

ANALYSIS:
NZGE analysis No. 38085 on the 15th January 2021.
Genetic Gains SIL Bureau.

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