Evaluation of potential effects and genetic parameters in conformational limb defects in Pura Raza Española horses

Morphological limbs defects are the most frequent in horses. The aim of this study was to establish prevalence, associated effects and genetic parameters hock knee Pura Raza Española horses, using two different approaches. In Approach_1, analysed were closed, open, convergent divergent studied buck, calf, bench knock. Defects classified into 3 levels: 0 no defect, 1 slight defect 2 serious defects. Approach_2, which used a linear scale, pair opposing defects, divided 5 levels, from −2 2, where corresponded absence defects: Lateral view (closed/open) rear (convergent/divergent) lateral (buck/calf) frontal (bench/knock) defect. A total 43,358 with an average age 5.07 years, evaluated, prevalence horses affected ranging 3.31% (bench) 74.12% (convergent). Genetic estimated Bayesian procedure BLUPF90 software. Heritability ranged 0.25 0.42 (divergent) 0.18 0.24 (convergent/divergent). may be related genes, it is therefore better them as separate not on same scale. highest positive correlation between calf vs knock (0.70). Our results imply that selection against limb possible would allow us reduce risk horses’ offspring suffering them.HighlightsThere high PRE make animals unsuitable for sport cause significant economic loss breeding herds.The evaluation independently instead traditional opposite located at extremes, has good its evaluation.Using criteria PRE' s program could contribute eradication major conformation sport.