The aim of this work was to estimate the heritability and the genetic correlations between visual scores and reproductive traits of Nelore cattle. The traits evaluated were: finishing, muscling, and conformation scores at weaning (PD, MD, and CD, respectively) and yearling (PS, MS and CS, respectively); age at the first calving (IPP) and scrotal circumference (PE). The records of 66,244 animals born between 1990 and 2006 were used. The genetic parameters were estimated using bi-trait animal analyses with Bayesian inference. A linear model for IPP and PE and a nonlinear (threshold) model for visual scores were used. The heritability estimates were: CD, 0.19±0.02; PD, 0.23±0.02; MD, 0.20±0.02; CS, 0.26±0.01; PS, 0.33±0.02; MS, 0.32±0.02; IPP, 0.16±0.03; and PE, 0.36±0.02. Genetic correlation estimates between visual scores and IPP were negative, varying from -0.18±0.03 to -0.29±0.02. Positive genetic correlations were obtained between the visual scores and PE, from 0.19±0.01 to 0.31±0.01. Animal selection with the highest visual scores, mainly those taken after the yearling age, allows to improve herd reproductive traits
conformation; age at first calving; muscling; scrotal circumference; finishing
