Asymmetric genetic correlations between dairy traits

Realized genetic correlations between dairy traits were estimated from half sib response to (a) upward, respectively downward selection and (b) to diff erent selected traits. Data comprised records from 36 870 Bavarian Fleckvie h and from 9434 Angler cows from the years 1977-88 and 1990, respectively. No asymmetry appeared between upward and downward selection. However, in bo th breeds selection for yield led to stronger negative reaction in far and protein content than vice versa. Between protein and fat content the realiz ed correlation appears to be symmetric.