Genetic Correlation: Milk Yield vs. Fat Yield

The genetic correlation between milk yield and fat yield in dairy animals is generally:

Correct Answer: Positive and High

From the notes (Examples of Correlation): Milk yield and fat yield are positively correlated.

Critical Distinction (from notes)

• Milk yield & fat YIELD: Positively correlated (and high) ✔ — cows producing more milk also produce more total fat in kg
• Milk yield & fat PERCENTAGE (%): Negatively correlated — high-yielding cows tend to have lower fat% (dilution effect)

Other Positive Correlations (from notes)

• Egg size and egg weight in poultry
• Heavier sheep → more wool
• Heavier hen → larger eggs
• Birth weight and weaning weight in cattle

Negative Correlations (from notes)

• Milk yield and fat%
• Number of eggs and size of eggs
• Milk yield and draught capacity