Genetic Correlation of Conformation and Race Performance Traits in Iranian Arab Horse Population

Six conformation traits (withers height, body length, hind and fore limb circumference, heart girth circumference and chest depth) were recorded in 240 randomly selected horses. Three race performances (best racing time in distance of 1250 meters (BT1250), best racing time in distance of 1750 meters (BT1750) and best place in distance of 1250 meters (BP1250)) were recorded with race-meeting CD films. Genetically correlations of these traits were estimated with multi traits animal model according Derivative Free-Restricted Maximum Likelihood (DF-REML). Highest and lowest genetic correlations were between, heart girth circumference with BP1250 (-0.848±0.092) and fore limb circumference withBTl 250 (-0.062±0.008). In conclusion genetic correlation of conformation traits with race performance traits were high and horses could be selected in early stage of life with conformation traits then it will decrease generation interval and increase genetic gain.