Abstract
Sheep data from a flock selected for increased 14-mo greasy fleece weight were used in a comparison for rate of convergence for equations from two models. The models compared were the individual animal model and an equivalent reduced animal model. The equations for the reduced animal model were the same as those obtained if the equations for nonparents in the animal model were absorbed. These models allowed for the evaluation of animals to include their own as well as relatives' records. Animals were evaluated simultaneously for three traits: greasy fleece weight, live weight and mean fiber diameter. Converged solutions were reached in approximately one-half the number of rounds using the reduced animal model. Adequate ranking of animals for selection purposes was achieved in 100 rounds; however, a representative picture of genetic trend required further iteration. Copyright © 1984. American Society of Animal Science . Copyright 1984 by American Society of Animal Science.