Penetration of Angus genetics in the Australian beef cattle herd was gauged several ways, including the number of head influenced by Angus genetics.
An independent survey has identified that Angus genetics have a significant impact in the Australian cattle population, with substantial penetrance into northern Australia.
The results identified approximately 5.6 million breeding females in the national beef herd are influenced by Angus genetics, accounting for 48 per cent of the beef breeding population.
Of these females, approximately 2.4 million are purebred Angus. Based on their influence, Angus was the most utilized breed genotype in all states except Queensland and the Northern Territory.
The survey, conducted by an independent market research group, as part of a MLA Donor Company supported adoption project, was primarily focused on collecting baseline data on producer’s breeding preferences and genetic technology adoption.
In addition, data captured from the survey was used to quantify the level of Angus penetration in the Australian beef industry. The data represents some 406,000 head, 108 different breeds and crosses.
In commenting on the survey findings, Angus Australia’s Chief Executive Officer, Peter Parnell said “Whilst the survey had successfully provided essential baseline data to enable future evaluation of the impact of Angus Australia’s research and adoption initiatives, it also clearly showed that the influence Angus genetics was such that the benefits of these initiatives would have a very significant impact on a large segment of the Australia beef industry”.
Penetration of Angus genetics in the Australian beef cattle herd was gauged several ways, including the number of head influenced by Angus genetics. For example, one pure bred cow and one F1 Angus cross heifer would equate to two head influenced by Angus genetics.
-Angus Australia