What is MateSel?

MateSel is a program used to help allocate ewes to sires to increase genetic gain and manage genetic diversity while achieving your breeding objective. The degree of selection pressure on various traits is specified by the breeder and can be adjusted according to your breeding objective.

Some features of MateSel include:

• Increasing genetic gain in a balanced approach while managing genetic diversity.

• Manage trait distributions, including Tactical Desired Gains, for example putting a limit on adult weight

• Handle the use of reproductive technologies including AI and ET.

• Use genomic information for mating decisions as well as for selection.

What is required to use MateSel?

• Sire and dam pedigree on candidates (full pedigree)

• Roll call of potential dams and sires

• Clear breeding objective

The table below provides an example of a MateSel prediction and the actual outcome for a Merino client. The variation between the two is because not all ewes got in lamb to their allocated AI sire and lambed down to a backup sire. 

Interested to find out how MateSel can benefit your breeding program?

The SheepMetriX team can assist you with your MateSel runs ahead of joining this year. Get in touch with us via the link below for more information on how we can help