Scaled-Down DNA Test Provides Assistance in Keep-Cull Decisions
by Troy Smith, field editor, Angus Journal
RAPID CITY, S.D. (Dec. 2, 2013) — On the eve of the 2013 Range Beef Cow Symposium, which was hosted Dec. 3-5 in Rapid City, S.D., Zoetis and Certified Angus Beef LLC (CAB) hosted a meeting for cow-calf producers interested in using DNA-testing technology during the process of rebuilding the cow herd. Among the speakers was Kent Andersen, technical services specialist for Zoetis, a partner in providing GeneMax™ testing technology to producers utilizing Angus genetics.
Producers using EPD values to buy registered-Angus bulls are making a calculated bet that progeny will perform according to predictions based on pedigree, individual performance and progeny performance information, said Kent Andersen, technical services specialist for Zoetis.
“Genomics provides a way for producers to hedge their bets,” said Andersen, noting that producers using expected progeny difference (EPD) values to buy registered-Angus bulls are making a calculated bet that progeny will perform according to predictions based on pedigree, individual performance and progeny performance information.
“Having genomic information (from DNA testing) is like turning over another card,” added Andersen, noting the incorporation of DNA information in genomic-enhanced EPDs for a growing list of traits that now includes heifer pregnancy. “As a commercial producer, you can also hedge your bets during herd rebuilding.”
Andersen said use of DNA testing continues to increase among seedstock and commercial producers. Some commercial producers use the full HD 50K test on replacement heifers, but a more typical approach is to purchase tested bulls and test replacement heifer candidates with the $17 GeneMax test. GeneMax, developed in partnership with CAB, is a scaled-down test providing genomic ratings for gain and grade (marbling), along with sire identity.
Suggesting that producers use GeneMax to aid keep-or-cull decisions, Andersen said knowledge of retained heifers’ potential for gain and grade can then be used to plan matings with complementary DNA-tested Angus sires. In the feedlot, GeneMax testing of steers can be used to benchmark herd performance. Andersen said that GeneMax test results can also be used to help capture grid-marketing premiums by identifying cattle with superior marbling potential.
Editor's Note: This article was written under contract or by staff of Angus Productions Inc. (API), which claims copyright to this article. It may not be published or redistributed without the express permission of API, publisher of the Angus Journal, Angus Beef Bulletin, Angus e-List and Angus Beef Bulletin EXTRA. To request reprint permission and guidelines, contact Shauna Rose Hermel, editor, at 816-383-5270.
