Angus genomics under microscope at regional forum

Angus--8Angus beef cattle were under the genomic microscope at the Angus Australia Regional Forum held in Bunbury.

The forum, titled Genomics in a Modern Angus Beef Business, was presented by Angus Australia chief executive Peter Parnell and breed development manager Andrew Byrne — both excited about the future vision of genomics research and its related production parameters.

On hand to take notes were a group of 30 WA Angus breeders and industry representatives.

“With ongoing collaboration, Angus beef cattle will continue to lead the Australian beef industry in the application of genomics,” Dr Parnell said.

“Angus is at the forefront.

“Further gains in this technology will benefit the breed with more accurate estimated breeding values, particularly on young animals and especially for difficult to measure traits. The future promises improved research into feed efficiency, fertility, carcass quality, health and resilience.”

Mr Byrne described genomics as a term to describe a range of DNA-based technologies concerned with the structure, function, evolution and mapping of genomes (the complete set of genes present in an organism).

“Simply, DNA contains the genetic blueprint,” he said.

Mr Byrne said presently the use of genomics in an Angus beef enterprise includes parentage verification, management of genetic conditions, the improvement of production and qualitative traits and supply chain traceability and verification.

“The incorporation of genomic information in the calculation of estimated breeding values (EBVs) will result in more accurate selection decisions, particularly if the animal is young and for difficult to measure traits.

“Other uses of genomics are the management of qualitative traits including the animal’s coat colour and myostatin (double muscling).

“All Angus breeders should be considering how to harness the opportunities provided by genomics.”