👉 Breeding math is a statistical method used to estimate the genetic merit of individuals in a breeding population, particularly in livestock and crop improvement programs. It involves calculating expected progeny differences (EPDs), which predict the genetic contribution of an individual to its offspring based on its own performance and the performance of its relatives. The core formula is EPD = (P^2
w) + (1-P)^2
w, where P is the proportion of genetic variance attributable to the trait, and w is the weight given to the individual's own genetic contribution. By combining EPDs from selected parents, breeders can make informed decisions to enhance desired traits in future generations, optimizing breeding strategies and improving overall herd or crop quality. This method is essential for managing genetic improvement programs efficiently, especially when dealing with complex traits influenced by multiple genes and environmental factors.