Importance of the genotype x environment interaction in production traits in dairy cattle

Dairy cattle shows their genetic potential in different efficiency levels depending on the region in which they live; this effect is referred to as interaction genotype x environment (IGE) and may have implications for the genetic improvement of dairy cattle in Mexico. This phenomenon should be considered when importing genetic resources from other countries, and even from other regions within the same country. The objective of this study was to review the IGE in the genetic improvement of dairy cattle. The genetic improvement programs need to be based on records of the productions carried out in each of the production units. This can help identify the factors affecting the genetic production and how this in turn reflects the achieved production. It is concluded that the selection of the sires of the next generation must be conducted under the same conditions as where their progenies will be used if the IGE is to be minimized.