2 minute read
Wrapping up Next Generation Selection with RBVs
Cheyne Twist, Communications Officer
Angus Australia has compiled several resources to support members in taking Research Breeding Values into the paddock for next generation selection. Angus Australia members are encouraged to contact Angus Australia regarding any questions they have about Research Breeding Values.
Introduction to Research Breeding Values & Research
Angus Australia currently publishes four Research Breeding Values. As part of Angus Australia’s involvement in these projects, members can submit additional performance recording information which can either directly feed into current research activities or build the reference data for future research and development activities.
Mature cow hip height and how to collect it
Angus Australia currently publishes Research Breeding Values on Mature Cow Hip Height. Mature Cow Height (MCH) RBVs provide estimates of genetic differences between animals in the height of mature females. Mature Cow Height RBVs are calculated from height measurements taken at the hip. Higher Mature Cow Height RBVs indicate an animal is expected to produce daughters that are taller as mature females.
Mature Cow Body Condition and how to collect it
Mature Cow Body Condition (MBC) RBVs provide estimates of genetic differences between animals in the body condition of mature females. Mature cow body condition assesses the body condition of mature females and are measured as visual scores. Members can contribute performance information on this research breeding value. Mature cow body condition scores are collected using a 0-5 scoring scale based on the visual appearance of the animal.
Coat Type and how to collect it
Coat Type (CT) RBVs provide estimates of genetic differences between animals in coat type. Coat Type RBVs are calculated from a subjective assessment of an animal’s hair length, fibre diameter and handle, and are expressed in score units. Coat scores assess the coat of young animals examining hair length, fibre diameter and handle, and are measured as a visual score. Lower Coat Type RBVs indicate an animal is expected to produce progeny with a shorter, slicker coat.
The ImmuneDEX research breeding value provides an estimate of genetic differences between animals for overall immune competence, a key component of resilience, and is calculated by antibody-mediated immune response and cell-mediated immune response phenotypes. The ImmuneDEX research breeding value provides an estimate of genetic differences between animals for overall immune competence with higher ImmuneDEX values indicating an animal is expected to produce a higher proportion of progeny with an enhanced ability to resist disease challenges and therefore have lower disease incidence.
