XDesign

XDesign is a computer software tool for preparation of complex mating designs in tree breeding, including those that optimize genetic contributions and avoid relatedness between mates.

XDesign accepts a list of selected candidates, their pedigree, estimated breeding values (EBVs) and the desired frequency of use in the mating plan. The user can specify if mating is to be positive-assortative or random, and can specify a threshold on the maximum coancestry between parents in a given cross. The program prepares a crossing list, giving the parents to be crossed, their mid-parent EBV and the coancestry between parents is each cross.

Read the report “XDesign 1.0: a tool for generation of complex mating designs with optimal contributions” for instructions on installing and using the software.

XDesign is freely available from Skogforsk for research and non-commercial use.

XDesign is updated and improved continuously. Sign up below to get an email when a new version of XDesign is released.

XDesign update notifications

Download