R.F. Veerkamp

Papers

Total Citations

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About

R.F. Veerkamp is a leading figure in quantitative genetics and sustainable livestock breeding, with a primary focus on reducing the environmental footprint of dairy production. His research centers on the genetic architecture of methane (CH₄) emissions in dairy cows, pioneering the integration of environmental traits into breeding programs. Veerkamp’s major contributions include estimating heritability and repeatability of enteric methane concentrations using large-scale, long-term datasets, demonstrating that these traits are genetically variable and can be selected for. His 2022 study, with 20 citations, provided foundational genetic parameter estimates for repeatedly recorded methane concentrations, establishing the feasibility of breeding for lower emissions. More recently, his 2024 work (8 citations) critically examined the covariance structure of methane traits across lactation, revealing potential inaccuracies in traditional repeatability models and advocating for random regression approaches to improve reliability in genetic evaluations. By addressing optimal recording strategies and evaluation models, Veerkamp’s research directly informs national breeding programs aiming to mitigate climate impact. His work is instrumental in shaping a future where dairy farming is both productive and environmentally sustainable, making him a key voice in the intersection of animal breeding and climate science.