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Maternal heterosis has the most significant impact on the total productivity of a production system due to its direct influence on the female's performance in terms of fertility, calf vigor, and overall reproductive efficiency. Maternal heterosis refers to the benefits received from the hybrid vigor that arises in the offspring when the mother (dam) comes from different genetic backgrounds. This can result in improved traits such as better milk production, enhanced maternal instincts, and more robust calf health, all of which are crucial for establishing successful and productive cow-calf operations.

The offspring of females exhibiting maternal heterosis are often healthier and grow more efficiently, leading to higher weaning weights and better overall herd performance. By maximizing maternal traits, producers can achieve higher rates of productivity, enhance genetic diversity in their herds, and ultimately contribute to a more sustainable production system.

Paternal heterosis, while still beneficial, typically has a less pronounced effect on the overall productivity compared to maternal heterosis since it mainly influences traits relating to the sire's genetic contributions instead of the direct care and nurturing aspects provided by the dam. Individual heterosis pertains to the performance of hybrid offspring but is less about maternal contributions specifically. Genetic factors encompass a wide range of influences, but they do not solely address the