broedsucces

Broedsucces is a term used in Dutch-language discourse to describe the effectiveness of breeding efforts in producing viable offspring. It encompasses the success rate across stages of the reproductive cycle, from mating success to birth, juvenile survival, and attainment of reproductive maturity.

Etymology: The word is formed from broed (breeding stock or brood) and succes (success), reflecting its meaning as success in breeding.

Measurement: Common indicators include hatch rate or birth rate, fertility (proportion of matings leading to pregnancy or production), survival to weaning or juvenile stage, and time to first reproduction. In plants or aquaculture, additional metrics such as germination rate or juvenile growth rate may be included. Genetic diversity and inbreeding coefficients are sometimes used to assess long-term viability.

Contexts: Broedsucces is used in animal husbandry (poultry, cattle, pigs), aquaculture, and plant breeding programs, as well as in wildlife conservation breeding programs evaluating success of reintroduction efforts.

Limitations: Focusing solely on short-term offspring may overlook welfare concerns, disease dynamics, or genetic health. A high broedsucces rate does not guarantee sustainable breeding without managing selection pressures and maintaining diversity.

See also: Related concepts such as breeding success, hatch rate, and conservation genetics.