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Abstract

Abstract The premise of the central performance test is that differences in performance of young animals raised in a common environment are largely attributed to genetics; however, this can be confounded by differences in pre-test environments. It is assumed top-ranking individual’s genetic advantage is a permanent change transferable to the next generation. The popularity of the central performance tests has waxed and waned over the past decades. A strengths-weaknesses-opportunities-threats analysis indicates factors influencing producer participation can include cost, time, geographical coverage, alignment with industry, association support, and relevancy. A second generation of central performance tests with innovative, targeted approaches is needed to face the challenges of the goat industry. Genomics has the potential to impact all aspects of the livestock industry, including central performance testing. However, the building of a reference population large enough to yield meaningful genomic estimated breeding value (GEBV) takes time. The future of central performance test remains unknown.

Keywords: Central Performance Test, Genetics, Selection, Evaluation, Strengths-Weaknesses-Opportunities-Threats

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