A Manual for Use of MTDFREML: A Set of Programs to Obtain Estimates of Variances and Covariances (Draft)

Abstract

The manual in eight chapters describes how to compile and run the FORTRAN programs for multiple-trait-restricted-maximum-likelihood estimate of genetic variances and covariances for animal models. Chapters also describe various models that can be analyzed, suggestions for computing strategies, the theory behind the method, the algorithms used so that modifications can be made, and technical descriptions of the search algorithm and its properties. The purpose is to provide not only step-by-step instructions but also background for successful use of the programs.