Graphical model representation of pedigree based mixed model

Pedigree based mixed model represents a simplistic yet robust and powerful model frequently used in animal and plant breeding, evolutionary biology, and human genetics. In the Bayesian setting inference of all model parameters can be performed with the use of well known McMC methods. Algorithms are commonly formulated with matrices, which provides a generic view, but hinders interpretation. Here, a generic graphical model representation is developed. This eases the interpretation of the model and used algorithms. In addition, graphical model formulation provides a way to fit pedigree based mixed model in standard graphical model programs, such as BUGS.