Agricultural News
Genomic Testing and GE-EPD's: The Next Wave of Technology for Cattlemen
Mon, 19 Oct 2015 17:32:32 CDT
Cattle producers got a glimpse of the latest in tools and technology last week in Stillwater. Oklahoma State University and the American Angus Association hosted the Cattlemen's Boot Camp. One of the newest and most exciting tools producers have access to is called genomic technology. Dr.Tonya Amen, Genetic Service Director for Angus Genetics, Inc. said having genomic technology has changed the way and rate in which cattle can be changed.
This DNA or genetic evaluation tool allows cattlemen to characterize animals much earlier in life for traditional traits. Amen said it also helps characterize traits that are often difficult, expensive or even time consuming to measure. This can include traits such as, individual feed intake or carcass traits. Genetic testing has also become more affordable, making it more feasible for producers to utilize.
Genomic testing offers important data that can be incorporated into expected progeny differences (EPDs). Amen said these genomic-enhanced EPD's look and work just like a traditional EPD. In adding this new genetic component, she said that adds accuracy to those figures much earlier in the animal's life.
The American Angus Association continues to develop new EPD's. Amen said the association will be releasing an EPD for tenderness very soon. The association is also developing EPD's for regional characteristics. This includes addressing High Altitude Disease and heat tolerance.
The American Angus Association is also in the process of developing a genetic selection tool for commercial producers.
Radio Oklahoma Ag Network Farm Director Ron Hays caught up with Amen at the Cattlemen's Boot Camp. Click or tap on the LISTENBAR below to hear the full interview. Hays and Amen also discuss EPD's, accuracies and using these tools across breeds.
WebReadyTM Powered by WireReady® NSI
Top Agricultural News
More Headlines...
