For the first time researchers have tested fleece trait measurements from young rams to predict lifetime wool production and quality for their progeny.

DPI research scientist, Sue Mortimer, said the project had examined fleece traits in Merino rams under the age of 10 months to explore the accuracy of early assessments in predicting future performance.

"Fleece traits, particularly wool weight, are major profit drivers for commercial Merino flocks and breeders need to provide sound genetic information from their rams for these traits," Dr Mortimer said.

"If this research can deliver that information for young rams, not only will producers have the opportunity to better meet flock breeding objectives, the results could also extend the working life of rams. Reliable post-weaning fleece trait information would make a difference, and we would expect to see increased confidence in joining rams at 18 months of age, rather than waiting another six or eight months.''

Genetic parameters for early fleece traits will be compared with existing data from older rams to determine the accuracy of the early evaluations.

The project will evaluate the efficiency of using post-weaning traits to achieve genetic improvement for a range of Merino breeding objectives and lifetime sheep performance.

Researchers also aim to use the study to finetune adult genetic parameters and ensure genetic progress is supported by the post-weaning selection strategies.

Supported by Australian Wool Innovation, the post-weaning fleece evaluations are run in parallel with the Macquarie Central Test Sire evaluations at TARC and add to the development of Australian Sheep Breeding Values provided by Sheep Genetics MerinoSelect database. Information is being gathered from the DPI TARC, and CSIRO, Armidale flocks and studs that are collecting records from young rams. Click here for early results ​online.