Bottom Line

Volume 11, Issue 1

Winter 2009 INSIDE...

Selection, Crossbreeding in Times of Pinched Profits Profitability depends on producing more value through enhanced efficiency.

Breeders Tackle Temperament The genetic trend shows Limousin cattle are calmer than ever, thanks to diligent selection.

F94L Is ‘Power’ Gene

NALF Photoart

The “Limousin muscling gene” is a friendly mutation that increases muscularity but not breeding or calving difficulties.

Limousin Exchange Headlines NALF’s Online Tools In addition to a lot of useful information for cow-calf producers, NALF.org offers a convenient, online marketplace to search, sort and select bulls, females and feeder calves.

Creating More Valuable Feeder Calves

Limousin Locator

By J. Tom Brink

Find the Limousin sales and private-treaty offerings near you.

Bottom Line is published three times per year by the North American Limousin Foundation, 7383 S. Alton Way, Suite 100, Centennial, Colorado 80112; (303) 220-1693; fax: (303) 220-1884; www.nalf.org Executive Vice President Kent Andersen, Ph.D., Ext. 120 Dir. of Member & Commercial Relations Frank Padilla, Ext. 123 Dir. of Performance Programs Lauren Hyde, Ph.D., Ext. 140 Dir. of Communications Brad Parker, Ext. 117

Since the formation of Five Rivers Cattle Feeding in 2005, our organization has finished more than 4 million head of cattle. We have seen all kinds of genetics come through our feedyards – the good, the mediocre, the bad, the ugly and (occasionally) the really ugly. It gives us a clear picture of what U.S. cow-calf producers are doing with the genetics in their herds. We feed cattle from producers who have an excellent understanding of what the beef industry needs in both performance and carcass traits. We also see cattle from herds that do not have a clue.

Five Rivers does its best to manage all kinds of genetic variation toward its most economical and valuable end point. We can do only so much, however. Genetics are tremendously important in cattle feeding and the entire beef supply chain. You can take the simple principles presented here and

help make the U.S. beef industry more competitive and prosperous while benefiting your own enterprise.

It is basketball season so I will use that as an analogy to illustrate the importance of genetics in cattle feeding. Suppose you are the new coach of a small-town junior-highschool basketball team. You walk into the gym on the first day of practice and see two 13-year-old boys standing side by side. One is 6 feet tall, with broad shoulders, an athletic build and a competitive look in his eye. The second boy stands 5 feet 1 inch and resembles a 40-year-old couch potato.

As their coach, you undoubtedly can help both boys develop stronger skills. Practice will make both of them better. Yet there is only so much you can do to improve the smaller, less athletic boy’s game. The genetics continued on page 2

Creating More Valuable Feeder Calves continued from page 1 just are not there to take him far in basketball.

The same is true of the cattle we feed. If the right raw materials (genetics) are not there, our ability to produce the high-quality beef consumers want in a cost-effective manner is limited severely.

Economics of Size, Finish Weight With today’s high corn and roughage costs, it is important to understand what size of animal is the most efficient to feed. Would you rather feed a steer that finishes quickly (fewer days on feed) with a lighter out-weight or a more performance-oriented steer you can feed longer to a heavier final weight? Real-world feedyard data answer that question definitively, and the race is not even close. The heavier-finishing steer outpaces his lighter-weight counterpart and makes the cash register ring a lot louder. Furthermore, the same steer wins whether corn costs $4 or $7 per bushel.

Table 1. Steer Performance Comparison 700- to 800-lb. carcasses 784-lb. carcass wt.

782-lb. placement wt.

1.05% death loss Dry matter intake = 19.29 lb.

ADG = 2.93 lb.

Dry F/G = 6.63 lb.

158 days on feed

>850-lb. carcasses 866-lb. carcass wt.

787-lb. placement wt.

0.98% death loss Dry matter intake = 20.34 lb.

ADG = 3.30 lb.

Dry F/G = 6.20 lb.

169 days on feed

2004–2008 closeouts on more than 470,000 head

Page 2

Table 1 tracks average performance of large numbers of finished steers that had final carcass weights of either 700 to 800 pounds or more than 850 pounds. We normalized the data for placement weight, health status and month sold to keep the comparison fair.

The split between those two steer groups is a sort on genetics. Following their genetic programming, the first group exhibits lower growth and less out-weight potential.

The second group has stronger performance genetics and the ability to reach heavier finish weights efficiently.

The average carcass-weight difference between the two groups is only 82 pounds (784 versus 866). Yet those two groups were markedly different in feedyard performance. The heavier steers had much better average daily gains (ADGs) and dry feed-to-gain conversion rates (F/Gs). That is true despite the heavier-finishing group’s longer days on feed, which typically depress performance.

ADG and F/G differences translate into significant economic differences between the two groups. When corn costs $4 per bushel, the heavier-finishing steers would be worth $60 more per head than the lightweight group. Even at $7 corn, the difference still is $30 per head in favor of the bigger, performance-oriented steers. Cow-calf producers who want to sell their calves for top dollar should make sure the genetics they are using have good growth and out-weight potential.

Profit-seeking feedyards do not want to feed the smallframed, quick-finishing steer.

Health Sickness still is the No. 1 production problem cattle feeders face. Too many cattle arrive in U.S. feedyards without

Winter 2009

BOTTOM LINE

enough immunity, especially as it relates to common respiratory diseases. Lack of proper vaccination programs and other management-related factors are the main reasons those challenges persist. Our industry has the technology and knowhow to get cattle better prepared for future health challenges before they leave their farms or ranches of origin; however, implementation is lacking.

Genetics also play a role. The industry needs more emphasis on understanding the relationship between genetics and health. We finally are beginning to do much-needed genetic research into health. As shown in Table 2, cattle death losses (which often are hard to predict from one group of cattle to the next) affect cattle-feeding performance and profitability in a big way.

Traits That Equal Premiums Discussing the role of genetics in cattle feeding would not be complete without touching on carcass traits. Good-quality cattle routinely can garner a $20 to $50 per head premium on many industry grids. Table 3 illustrates how various carcass traits correlate with grid premiums in both Southern and Northern feeding regions.

Southern U.S. packing plants (Kansas and Texas) are starving for high-grading cattle. Thus, the percentage of Choice and Prime quality grades is highly correlated (0.6) to overall grid premiums. Fewer Standard cattle also help generate larger premiums, as evidenced by a fairly strong negative correlation (−0.49). Quality grade is important in Northern regions, too, but yield grades also surface as being key influencers.

The percentage of Yield Grades 1 and 2 cattle correlates more strongly to the final grid premium than does the percentage of Prime and Choice grades.

Cattle that are too fat (Yield Grades 4 and 5) and too heavy are a bigger problem in the North. Balanced-trait cattle that produce reasonably high quality and yield grades, without many outliers, such as heavies and dark cutters, are the easiest pathway to consistent grid premiums. And it is not that difficult to do. Just match up the right genetics with a healthy dose of both marbling and muscling, according to the simple plan that follows. continued on page 4

Table 3. Traits Correlated With Grid Premiums

*Yearling-fed steers sold in early 2008

South (KS-TX) Correlation Prime/Choice 0.60 Dressing percentage 0.37 YG 4 & 5 0.00 YG 1 & 2 –0.24 Heavies –0.29 Darks –0.32 Standards –0.49

North (CO-NE) Correlation YG 1&2 0.39 Prime/Choice 0.35 Dressing percentage 0.22 Darks –0.08 Standards –0.21 YG 4 & 5 –0.46 Heavies –0.46

2.54% difference between best and worst groups (0.47% vs. 3.01%)

222,557 steers & heifers

113,858 steers & heifers

Table 2. Effect of Health, Death Loss* Death loss 0% - 0.5% 0.5% - 1.5% 1.5% +

ADG 3.07 2.99 2.80

Dry-matter conversion Profit per head 6.69 –$67.64 6.80 –$95.53 7.03 –$113.80

LIMOUSIN’S COMMERCIAL CONNECTION

Winter 2009

Page 3

Creating More Valuable Feeder Calves continued from page 3

Breed Composition Pyramid: Ideal Feeder Animal

Wanted Five Rivers Cattle Feeding buys all shapes, sizes and colors to keep our pens full, but our first choice in feeder cattle is a Continental–Angus cross. Our recommendation for a good-feeding, good-grading, good-yielding animal is a combination of 25 percent to 50 percent Continental (for example, Limousin) and 50 percent to 75 percent Angus genetics.

Those cattle bring the balance needed to succeed both in the feedyard and on the grid.

Using superior genetics on both sides of that formula will produce the best results, of course. But, at a minimum, each producer should get the basic breed percentages right. If the entire industry followed that simple plan, it would be amazing how many problems in our packing plants would disappear overnight.

It all starts with the right genetics, as shown on the cover.

25% to 50% Continental (e.g., Limousin) 50% to 75% Angus

Work up from the bottom rung, adding more value as you go.

Do not skip any rung as you work toward greater value. Master the lower rungs first then move upward, ascending to the next rung.

At Five Rivers, we buy some cattle every day from producers who do a great job of putting those basic value points in place with each calf crop. We need many more like them.

Table 4. First Choice in Feeders: Continental–Angus • 25% to 50% Continental and 50% to 75% Angus • Good-feeding, good-grading, good-yielding animal that is usually the right size • Higher-percentage British cattle often lack muscle, yield and produce too many YG 4s • Higher-percentage Continental cattle often lack quality grade and frequently get too big before they are finished Balanced combination of Continental and Angus breeding is tough to beat.

Page 4

Up to 25% other breeds

Winter 2009

About the author: Tom Brink is vice president of cattle ownership and risk managment for JBS Five Rivers Cattle Feeding, which has a combined feeding capacity of more than 800,000 head at its locations in Colorado, Idaho, Kansas, Oklahoma and Texas.

BOTTOM LINE

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Contact a Strauss buying representative today to learn more.

■ John McGinn, Strauss Brands, 800-562-7775 or 262-305-5666, ■ Ray Krones, Strauss Brands, 815-867-0528 ■ Wendell Geeslin, Five Star Cattle Systems, 970-396-6958 ■ Heidi Todd, Five Star Cattle Systems, 970-231-6228

Strauss Brands PO Box 342 · Hales Corners, WI 53130 · 800-562-7775

www.straussveal.com/meadowreserve

Squeezed:

Selection, Crossbreeding in Times of Pinched Profits

By Kent Andersen

with at least a portion mated to terminal sires.

CattleFax estimates the cost of producing a finished steer To accommodate crossbreeding more readily, the North has increased 56 percent ($405 per head) in the last three years American Limousin Foundation (NALF) developed the Lim– from $726 per head in 2005 to $1,131 in 2008. The squeeze for Flex ® hybrid and the UltraMate Crossbreeding System in cow-calf producers and feeders is that, due to the global economy and supply-demand dynamics, retail prices have increased 2002. A year later, NALF launched expected progeny differby only 8 percent, or 29¢ per ences (EPDs) from a multipound, since 2005. breed genetic evaluation at On the expense side of the the University of Georgia. ledger, higher feed costs are the Recently, in 2007, NALF obvious culprit. Interestingly, contracted with Angus the feedyard’s share of total Genetics Inc. (AGI) to proproduction cost has increased vide EPDs that include evalfrom 28 percent in 2005 to 40 percent in 2008. Even though the uation of pedigree and performance information from both cow-calf segment’s cost of production has increased, its share the Limousin and Angus databases. Arguably, due to the milof the total cost has decreased from 57 percent to 44 percent in lions of records included, that now is the most comprehenthe last three years. Retail prices should have increased by 20 continued on page 8 percent to compensate for that overall increase in the live cost of production.

Mainstream-Market Assuming high costs and stagnant feeder and finished Sire-Selection Guidelines prices, profitability likely hinges on producing more or Select Limousin and Lim-Flex® sires with more valuable pounds through enhanced production effi■ above-average weaning and yearling weight expected progeny ciency. (See Tom Brink’s lead article.) From a genetic differences (EPDs); perspective, smart crossbreeding and sire selection can ■ Mainstream Terminal Index ($MTI) values of +$45 or greater; provide relief, especially if effectively directed toward ■ above-average EPDs for marbling and acceptable ribeye area; hitting value-added target markets.

■ genetics for carcass merit that complement your specific The production and economic advantages of maternal cows; heterosis from crossbred commercial cows adapted to ■ double-digit (>10) EPDs for docility; and their environment, as compared to straightbred commercial cows, is undeniable: ■ acceptable calving ease and birth weight EPDs, with special attention given if used on replacement heifers.

■ 20 percent more pounds of calf weaned per cow exposed due to hybrid vigor (heterosis) for conception rate, survival to weaning, milk production and weaning weight; ■

1.3 years added cow longevity; and,

■

therefore, nearly 30 percent greater lifetime cow productivity.

Based on research, crossbreeding simulations and practical experience, the average commercial F1 crossbred cow returns more than $70 more per year than an average straightbred cow. That advantage is likely closer to $100 with today’s higher feed costs and the expense of producing replacements.

If the chosen crossbreeding system yields between one-half and two-thirds of maximum heterosis, a hybrid cow offers at least $50 per year (more than $400 over her lifetime) in earnings advantage. The most profitable crossbreeding systems typically involve hybrid cows,

LIMOUSIN’S COMMERCIAL CONNECTION

Muscle-Market Sire-Selection Guidelines Select Limousin and Lim-Flex sires with ■ above-average EPDs for weaning and yearling growth; ■ above-average EPDs for ribeye area and observed muscularity; ■ double-digit EPDs for docility; and ■ acceptable calving ease and birth weight EPDs, with special attention given if used on replacement heifers.

Sire-Selection Guidelines for Producing Replacements Select Limousin and Lim-Flex sires with ■ above-average EPDs for calving ease (both direct and maternal), birth weight, scrotal circumference, stayability and docility; and ■ milk EPDs, frame sizes and body types matched to your feed resources.

Winter 2009

Page 7

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■

continued from page 7

sive and reliable multibreed genetic evaluation for growth traits in the beef industry.

The three-step UltraMate system provides an easy-to-follow guide to crossbreeding.

Scope Out Your Cows An assessment of your cow herd’s composition is the first step. How many of your cows are of the following general biological types?

■ Continental (for example, Limousin, Charolais and Simmental) ■ Continental–British crosses (for example, Limousin –Angus)

Table 1. Beef Industry Target Markets Target market

Zone for profit

Mainstream (55% of market)¹

Yield Grades 1, 2 & 3 low-Choice & Select zero misfires²

Muscling (15% of market)¹

100% Yield Grade 1 or 2 tender & low-fat zero misfires³

Marbling (30% of market)¹

mid-Choice & higher Yield Grade ≤ 3 zero misfires²

Strauss Free Raised® veal

220- to 280-lb. carcass

British (for example, Angus, Hereford and Shorthorn) and double-British crosses ■ Brahman crosses (for example, Brangus, Braford and Beefmaster) Documenting your cow herd’s “genetic inventory” provides a starting point for determining the most sensible target markets and bull-selection strategy. It follows that a quick study of your present and past bull batteries and those sires’ current EPDs offers added insight.

Focus on Your Target Markets

Genetically, one size or type of animal definitely does not fit all target markets. In fact, markets for feeder and finished animals are more genetically differentiated than ever. In addition to genetics, market differentiation is occurring on the management front, with growing demand for beef products with source, country, age and process veriFavored breed blends (in market cattle) fications. ½ Continental & ½ British That includes growing demand for (for example, Limousin & Angus) beef with natural (antibiotic- and horSouthern producers add < ¼ Bos indicus mone-free) and humane-handling at least ¾ muscular Continental claims. An example of expanded mar(for example, Limousin) ket differentiation is the recent introduction of Limousin-based Strauss Angus & Angus-cross (for example, Lim-Flex®) Free Raised® veal products. ¾ “marbled” Angus Interactions exist between genetat least ½ Limousin & up to ½ British ics and management when choosing target markets. For example, the pro-

¹ Projected scope of the market. ² Yield Grade 4 or 5, Standard, overweight, underweight, dark cutter ³ Yield Grade 3, 4 or 5; Choice (depending on market); overweight; underweight; dark cutter

Page 8

Winter 2009

continued on page 11

BOTTOM LINE

What Is Lim-Flex?

The North American Limousin Foundation’s (NALF’s) registry and genetic-evaluation services for Lim-Flex® hybrids broaden the range of crossbreeding options for commercial producers. With Lim-Flex hybrids, there are genetic options to fit almost every need. Fullblood and purebred Limousin provide a “full shot” of muscle and efficiency, and Lim-Flex hybrids offer a “blended shot” with added marbling and maternal abilities from the (black or red) Angus breed. With Limousin and Lim-Flex genetics, cow-calf producers can get the “just right” amount of Limousin influence for their specific crossbreeding needs.

The name “Lim-Flex” represents Limousin genetics with added flexibility – the most significant strength of that powerful blend: ■ flexible seedstock for simple, easily managed crossbreeding and the benefits of hybrid vigor; ■ flexible market progeny that consistently hit dressing-percentage and yield- and quality-grade targets for mainstream, case-ready markets; and ■ flexible females adapted for efficiency across a wide range of environments.

Lim-Flex genetics are the answer to profitable, systemwide production of case-ready products.

Lim-Flex Composition, Pedigree Specifications 1. Registered Lim-Flex animals are 25 percent to 75 percent Limousin genetics and 25 percent to 75 percent Angus or Red Angus genetics, with a maximum allowance of “another” or “unknown” breed composition of 12.5 percent.

2. Sires of registered Lim-Flex animals must be registered with NALF or their respective breed association and have documented pedigree information.

3. Dams of registered Lim-Flex animals must be from a registered sire included in either the NALF herdbook or that of another breed association and have breed composition recorded.

LIMOUSIN’S COMMERCIAL CONNECTION

Winter 2009

Page 9

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continued from page 8

Select the Correct Bulls

The final step in UltraMate is to select the best bulls. Table duction of natural products using straightbred British-mating 2 provides a guide to the best use of straightbred (fullblood systems might not yield the same returns as using systems and purebred) and Lim-Flex bulls to satisfy markets with that incorporate Continental breeds because of the growth, progeny of desired breed composition. weight, conversion and yield given up by not using implants Sire selection based on EPDs is essential. Because cows, on British animals. feed resources, management and production goals differ, Table 1 (page 8) provides a general description of market producers need to customize EPD prescriptions. As a startopportunities, including the vast mainstream market and ing point, Table 3 (page 12) provides average EPDs for Limthose oriented more specifically to lean yield (for example, ousin and Lim-Flex animals born over the last three years.

Laura’s Lean Beef), marbling (for example, Certified Angus Those averages provide benchmarks from which to formuBeef) and specialized Free Raised veal. A full range of Limoucontinued on page 12 sin genetics – delivered by the appropriate fullblood, purebred Table 2. Steps to Matching Cows, Bulls to Hit Market Targets With Progeny and Lim-Flex bulls – exists to comStep #1: Step #2: Step #3: Desired breed pliment various types of cows for Scope your cows Aim at the target market Fire with the right bulls blends of progeny* those targets. Identification of the British & 50/50 ➔ Limousin & Lim-Flex® ❶ Mainstream target is a growing prerequisite for British-cross 50/50 ➔ ❷ Free Raised® veal ➔ Limousin cows 25/75 ➔ Lim-Flex ❸ Marbling the effective selection and purchase of the most suitable bulls.

British– 75/25 ➔ Limousin ❶ Muscle Continental crossbred cows Continental (> 50%) cows Brahmancross cows

Mainstream ➔ ❷ ❸ Free Raised veal

❹ Marbling ❶ Muscle ➔ ❷ Mainstream ❸ Free Raised veal ❶ Muscle ➔ ❷ Mainstream ❸ Free Raised veal

➔ ➔ ➔ ➔ ➔ ➔ ➔ ➔ ➔

Lim-Flex Lim-Flex & Limousin Lim-Flex

50/50 50/50 25/75

Limousin Lim-Flex Lim-Flex

> 75 62/37 50/50

Limousin Lim-Flex Lim-Flex & Limosuin

75/12/12 50/37/12 37/50/12

* Preference that “British” is predominately Angus (black or red) and indicates approximate percentage of Limousin (or Continental), Angus and Brahman, respectively.

LIMOUSIN’S COMMERCIAL CONNECTION

Winter 2009

Page 11

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ease (CED), maternal calving ease (CEM) and appropriate milking ability (MA) will help produce fertile, long-lasting, easy-calving, productive replacements.

continued from page 11

late selection goals.

NALF’s Mainstream Terminal Index ($MTI) A carefully constructed simplifies selection by ranking animals for difFormula for Success Continental–British ferences in net profit in the mainstream marAs increased costs and stagnant prices ket from combined genetic merit for growth squeeze cow-calf and feedyard profitability, cross can come a lot (weaning and yearling weight EPDs), quality crossbreeding and selection targeted to complecloser to hitting most grade (marbling EPD) and yield grade (carment your cows and value-added markets can of the targets for cass weight, ribeye area and fat thickness offer a long-term measure of relief. Applying the reproduction, EPDs). Generally, $MTI values of +43 and UltraMate principles and selecting on reliable production and the greater rank animals in the top half of the multibreed EPDs will result in calf crops with end product than breed for mainstream-market growth and carimproved systemwide production efficiency. any straightbred. cass merit.

Remember the Web-based selection tools availEach of the UltraMate strategies for differable from NALF to help make finding the correct – Jim Gosey, University ent types of cows results in hybrid progeny. sires faster and easier. The Limousin Exchange bull of Nebraska-Lincoln Hybrid replacements, especially those of and female listing services and the Sire Selector intermediate blends of Limousin and Angus tool are available via www.nalf.org on the Web. (and some Brahman in Southern environments) should be For more information about crossbreeding, contact NALF well suited for most situations if you also practice selection to obtain a copy of Crossbreeding Beef Cattle for Western for maternal traits. Namely, selection based on EPDs for Range Environments from the Samuel Roberts Noble Foundastayability (ST), scrotal circumference (SC), direct calving tion and the Montana Agricultural Experiment Station.

Table 3. Average Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs) for 2006- to 2008-Born Limousin and Lim-Flex Animals* CED

BW

WW

YW

MA

CEM

SC

DOC

ST

Limousin avg.

7

1.8

40

76

21

3

0.3

15

17

Lim-Flex® avg.

8

0

43

84

24

2

0.3

12

14

CW

REA

YG

MS

$MTI

18

0.37

−0.05

−0.02

43

11

0.03

0.12

0.12

47

* CED = direct calving ease; BW = birth weight; WW = weaning weight; YW = yearling weight; MA = milking ability; CEM = maternal calving ease; SC = scrotal circumference; DOC = docility; ST = stayability; CW = carcass weight; REA = ribeye area; YG = yield grade; MS = marbling score; $MTI = Mainstream Terminal Index.

Page 12

Winter 2009

BOTTOM LINE

M  L   C 

By Lauren Hyde All breeds have bloodlines known to be nervous. There is no doubt that calmer cattle are more desirable than nervous ones are. They are easier to handle, and it is safer to be around them. They also are associated with higher gains in the feedyard and more desirable meat quality.

No other breed association has made greater strides toward improving docility than the North American Limousin Foundation (NALF). Thanks to the diligence of Limousin breeders across the country, not only do Limousin cattle have superior muscle and unmatched yield and efficiency, but they also are calmer now than ever.

At the Limousin Directions Breeders Symposium in 1991, Limousin breeders identified improving disposition as the No. 1 breed priority. Limousin breeders took seriously their mission to improve the trait. First, NALF developed a tempera-

Strauss Brands Photo

Limousin Breeders Tackle Temperament; Genetic Trend Shows Power of Selection ment-scoring system, which the Beef Improvement Federation (BIF) later adopted. The breed then developed the industry’s first docility (DOC) expected progeny difference (EPD).

Using docility EPDs to drive selection and to cull problem animals, Limousin breeders put strong selection pressure on disposition and made remarkable gains to improve docility.

Rapid genetic progress was possible given the strong heritability of 0.40 estimated for the Limousin breed.

Limousin breeders have collected docility scores for nearly 200,000 animals. Scores range from 1 to 6 – where 1 represents the calmest, most docile temperament, and 6 represents the most aggressive. Table 1 explains the scoring system in more detail and gives the distribution of scores throughout the breed.

Further analysis of the Limousin docility database shows a marked increase in the proportion of calm animals (scored as 1 or 2) – from 80 percent in 1996 to 95 percent in 2008. continued on page 20

Table 1. Docility Score Definitions, Descriptions Docility Score

Percent of scores

Definition

1

56

Docile

2

29

Restless

Quieter than average but slightly restless, might be stubborn during processing, might try to back from the chute, pulls back on the headgate, some tail flicking, exits the chute promptly

3

13

Nervous

Typical temperament; manageable but nervous and impatient; a moderate amount of struggling, movement and tail flicking; repeated pushing and pulling on the headgate; exits the chute briskly

4

1.6

Flighty

Jumpy and out-of-control, quivers and struggles violently, might bellow and froth at the mouth, continuous tail flicking, defecates and urinates during processing, frantically runs the fence line and might jump when penned individually, exhibits long flight distance, and exits the chute nervously

5

<1

Aggressive

Might be similar to Score 4 but with added aggressive behavior, fearful, extreme agitation, continuous movement that might include jumping and bellowing while in the chute, exits the chute frantically and might exhibit attack behavior when handled alone

6

<1

Very Aggressive

Description Mild disposition, gentle, easily handled, stands and moves slowly during processing, undisturbed, settled, somewhat dull, does not pull on the headgate when in the chute, exits the chute calmly

Extremely aggressive temperament, pronounced attack behavior

LIMOUSIN’S COMMERCIAL CONNECTION

Winter 2009

Page 17

BREEDER SPOTLIGHT

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NORTH CENTRAL REGION BREEDERS

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Fuhrmann Black Limousin

L I M O U S I N

BULLS AVAILABLE FOR SALE PRIVATELY AT THE RANCH

21314 OSR • Madisonville, TX 77864 Mobile (281) 808-3473 • Home (903) 344-2331 www.counsilfamilylimousins.com

Roy Lee Fuhrmann 2335 FM 1200 • Gainesville, TX 76240 Roybull@earthlink.net Ranch – (940) 665-6985 Mobile – (940) 727-2452

BQA II Certified Herd • Certified Brucellosis and TB Free Your call or visit is welcome

Davis Limousin Ranch Brad, Norma & Blair Davis 12500 Hwy. 279 • Brownwood, TX 76801 325/784-5071 • 325/784-7674 fax 325/647-7681 cell • info@davislimousin.com

www.davislimousin.com

Limousin & Lim-Flex Seedstock P.O. Box 1531 Camdenton, MO 65020

Owners: Daryl & Wally Cunningham

Committed to Excellence Page 18

Winter 2009

BOTTOM LINE

KEETON LIMOUSIN 10510 CR 1100 • Wolfforth, TX 79382 Leonard & Betty Keeton 806-866-9440 LLKT@door.net

Lyle & Shana Keeton fax: 806-866-9441 806-866-9049 BULLS • CLUB CALVES • HEIFERS

KUSEL LIMOUSIN

Perrin Limousin Ranch

Bulls and Females For Sale At The Ranch Visitors Always Welcome

Rusty and Marcy Perrin 302 Private Road 4482 Decatur, Texas 76234

(940) 433-8069

mobile (940) 393-3357 Email: perrlimo@flash.net

RANCH RAISED BULLS & HEIFERS FOR SALE Kusel Bulls have made cows SMILE in 39 states & Mexico!

(405) 643-2884 • (888) 542-BULL Fax: (405) 643-2030 Email: kusellim@sbcglobal.net www.johnkusellimousin.com

P.O. Box 370 Ft. Cobb, OK 73038 John Kusel

400 bulls & females for sale year round.

Breeder of 5 cer tified yearling weight record setting bulls.

JIM HCR 74, Box 146 Fort Davis, TX 79734-5005 (915) 426-3435 • fax (915) 426-3126

Cyndee McBee-Thomas • Terry Thomas 417 Hwy. 2731 Rising Star, TX 76471

DYER “Se Hablo Spanglish” jfdyer@hughes.net

www.bigbendtrailers.com

RED AND BLACK LIMOUSIN CATTLE

WIES LIMOUSIN RANCH

254/643-7176 254/631-8136 (cell) cktlt@hughes.net

www.mcbeelimousin.com

WELLSVILLE, MO 63384

573-684-2773

BOB & EUVONNE WIES

Specializing in Black Genetics

636-441-2439

WESTERN REGION BREEDERS TERRY OʼNEILL Owner: Jim Ludvik and Family 3900 S. Teller St. Lakewood, Colorado 80235 Home: 303/798-3065 Office: 303/781-9601

P.O. Box 30435 Billings, MT 59107

Scott and Cindy Edmondson 784 Horseshoe Creek Rd. Glendo, Wyoming 82213 307/735-4651 e-mail: keybar2@starband.net

Limousin • Red & Black Angus Red & Black Angus Composites Select Seed Stock Producer

406/373-6016 (ranch) 406/373-6048 (fax) tomahawk@mcn.net www.tomahawklimousin.com

Visitors always welcome

Brad & Janet Waddle 440 Road 161 Pine Bluffs, WY 82082 307-245-3599 waddlelimousin@rtconnect.net BULLS AND FEMALES AVAILABLE AT THE RANCH

EASTERN REGION BREEDERS Larry Smith 347 Davidson Road West Harrison, Indiana 47060 Evening: (812) 637-2303 Day: (513) 367-0218 www.loganhills.com

Scott Minges, We Cater To Commercial Cattlemen

Manager (812) 637-5554 Cell: (513) 616-8499

inerich Land and Cattle Co. BOB MINERICH

OWNER OFFICE: (859) 328-7118 FAX: (859) 328-7120 HOME: (859) 328-4104

2003 Barnes Mill Road Richmond, Kentucky 40476-0536

REGISTERED LIMOUSIN “Breeding Prime Cattle” minegwen@aol.com

n about

For more informatio

RYAN CARMICHAEL

CATTLE MANAGER HOME: (859) 328-7355

contact NALF or visit our Web site

s m a r g o r p l ia c r comme www.nalf.org at

LIMOUSIN’S COMMERCIAL CONNECTION

Winter 2009

Page 19

Limousin Breeders Tackle Temperament continued from page 17

Table 2. Percentile Breakdown of Docility EPDs for Sires of 2006–2008-Born Calves Percentile ranking

NALF uses the docility scores to compute docility EPDs, which indicate genetic differences in the likelihood offspring will inherit genes for calm, acceptable behavior. The higher the EPD, the greater the opportunity of producing calm progeny. On the flip side, the lower the EPD, the more nervous the expected behavior.

As an example, consider the following two sires of comparable accuracy and their docility EPDs. Docility (DOC) EPD Sire A

+25%

Sire B

+5%

Difference (A − B)

+20%

Docility EPD (in %) ≥ +21

Most docile (top 20%) Average docility (50%)

+14

More nervous (bottom 20%)

≤ +7

free of charge through the Limousin animal lookup on the NALF Web site (www.nalf.org).

Limousin breeders have been using docility EPDs since 1998, when NALF published the first genetic evaluation for docility. By placing a strong emphasis on selection for calmer cattle in their breeding programs, they have improved the temperament of Limousin cattle dramatically.

The figure shows the genetic trend in docility as measured by the average docility EPD for Limousin cattle born from 1985 through 2007. The graph shows cattle born in 1990 had an average docility EPD of about +1, and those born in 2007 averaged +15. That is a 14-point increase in 17 years, which is quite remarkable considering tools for genetically improving temperament have been around since only 1998.

Even with that success, Limousin breeders continue to collect docility scores and select even more stringently for calm, acceptable behavior. They are committed to providing quality genetics for the commercial users of Limousin cattle.

When Sire A and Sire B are mated to similar sets of females, you would expect Sire A to have a 20 percent (the difference between +25 percent and +5 percent) greater chance of producing calm progeny than Sire B has. Said a little differently, you would expect 20 percent more of Sire A’s progeny to be calm than Sire B’s progeny.

Just like EPDs for other traits, you can use docility EPDs to rank animals. Table 2 gives some information about where animals rank genetically in the Limousin breed according to their docility EPD. In the fall 2008 Limousin genetic evaluation, docility Figure. Genetic Trend in Docility, EPDs ranged from −24 to +46, with +13.7 representing 1985-2007 the average of active sires.

Accuracy values associated with docility EPDs range from “P,” which indicates a pedigree estimate (calculated by averaging the parents’ EPDs) to a high accuracy of 0.99. The higher the accuracy, the more individual or progeny data gathered, and the greater the EPD’s reliability. Commercial cattle producers should check the accuracy values for the docility EPDs of the sires of young bulls they purchase to assure the prospective sire is from a proven pedigree for calm behavior. All EPD and pedigree information is available

LIMOUSIN SERVICES Seedstock Consultants Specialized Sales 2300 Monument Ave. * Richmond, VA 23220 Ph: (804) 353-2220 * Fax: (804) 353-2221 Keith Kissee * Cell: (817) 821-6263 Email: kkseedstock@comcast.net

“Marketing Limousin Seedstock Throughout North America”

Mark A. Smith 13006 County Rd. 4037 Holts Summit, MO 65043 866-305-9600 Grgenetics@aol.com

Randall O. Ratliff 3610 Bear Creek Ln Thompson’s Station, TN 37179 Office: 615.791.8982 Fax: 615.791.8983 Mobile: 615.330.2735 www.rrmktg.com e-mail: sales@rrmktg.com

Commercial Semen Available www.grassrootsgenetics.com Page 20

Winter 2009

BOTTOM LINE

North American Limousin Foundation research shows that Limousin sires with two copies of F94L – a “friendly” modification of the normal myostatin gene – are likely to produce ribeyes that are 0.5 square inch larger than those with one copy.

F94L Is the Limousin ‘Power’ Gene

By Kent Andersen Unprecedented private and public investment in genomics research is beginning to yield intriguing new selection information for cattle producers. As with most new technologies, wise and cost-effective use of DNA tests requires careful study. Such is the case for a new diagnostic test now available for myostatin F94L – a powerful gene found predominantly in Limousin cattle.

Dubbed the “Limousin muscling gene” by the Australian researchers who discovered it, F94L is a “friendly” modification of the normal myostatin gene. In distinctly different and “less friendly” forms, other versions of the myostatin gene cause double muscling in Piedmontese and Belgium Blue cattle. The F94L gene causes increased muscularity without double muscling and its side effects – namely, serious calving difficulty and significant reduction in reproductive performance.

Prevalence The F94L version of the myostatin gene occurs in most Limousin cattle but in few or no animals of other breeds.

Table 1 provides genotypic and gene frequencies of 69 highaccuracy U.S. Limousin sires and 199 registered Australian Limousin animals. Seventy-three percent of myostatin alleles LIMOUSIN’S COMMERCIAL CONNECTION

in the U.S. animals and 95 percent in the Australian animals are F94L. In contrast, research indicates the frequency of F94L in Angus and Hereford cattle is 0.6 percent and zero, respectively.

Most of the Limousin animals are either homozygous (AA) or heterozygous (AC) for F94L (where “A” represents the F94L allele and “C” indicates the normal form of the allele for myostatin). A minority of Limousin animals, 6 percent of the U.S. animals and 1 percent of the Australian animals, did not continued on page 27

Table 1. Genotype, Gene Frequency for F94L in U.S., Australian Limousin Animals U.S. Limousin animals Australian Limousin animals (69 high-accuracy sires) (199 head) Genotype / No. of F94L alleles*

Genotypic frequency

Genotypic frequency

AA / 2 AC / 1 CC / 0

52% 42% 6%

91% 8% 1%

Allele

Allele frequency

Allele frequency

73% 27%

95% 5%

A C

* A = F94L allele; C = normal myostatin allele

Winter 2009

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F94L Is the Limousin ‘Power’ Gene continued from page 25 carry the F94L allele – most likely due to the grading-up process allowed by both associations.

Influence on Carcass Traits Australian researchers reported a single copy of the F94L allele was associated with a 10.5 percent increase in longissimus-muscle area [ribeye area (REA)], a 7.3 percent increase in meat weight, a 16.5 percent reduction in fat weight and an 8.2 percent reduction in intramuscular fat (IMF, or marbling) content. The effect of the F94L allele on birth and growth traits – and on tenderness, pH level and cooking loss – was not significant, but there was a shear-force advantage of between 6 percent and 11 percent (depending upon the cut) for animals with two copies of the gene.

Adelaide University researcher Wayne Pitchford said, “Animals with two copies of the gene consume the same amount

Table 2. Mean EPDs for Carcass Traits by F94L Genotype Genotype / No. of F94L alleles *

Carcass weight EPD

Ribeye Fat area thickness EPD EPD

Yield grade EPD

Marbling EPD

AA / 2

16

0.60

−0.02

−0.17

−0.08

AC / 1

12

0.13

0.00

0.01

0.01

4

0.47

−0.02

−0.18

−0.09

Difference

of feed as animals with no copies of the gene so they are much more feed-efficient at producing beef.”

Australian scientists concluded those results provide strong evidence that the myostatin F94L variant provides an intermediate and more useful phenotype – without correlated negative effects – than the more extreme double-muscling phenotypes caused by other modifications of the myostatin gene.

Here at Home To gauge the effect of F94L on performance traits further, the North American Limousin Foundation (NALF) computed the average expected progeny differences (EPDs) for the highaccuracy sires genotyped by MMI Genomics. Those sires’ average accuracy was greater than 0.75 for all carcass-trait EPDs. Similar to the Australian research, the 36 Limousin sires with two copies of F94L had REA EPDs that were 0.47 square inch larger than those of the 29 sires with one copy (Table 2).

Slightly favorable effects also were found for fat thickness, carcass weight and yield grade. There were not enough sires with zero copies of F94L to include them fairly in the comparison.

Also consistent with the Australian results, sires with two copies of F94L had an average marbling EPD that was about 0.1 marbling-score unit lower than the average marbling EPD of sires with one copy. Based on that data, breeders must balance selection for the F94L allele against marbling to maintain genetic merit for quality grade.

Calving Ease, Growth, Maternal Traits While insignificant in the Australian study, U.S. Limousin

* A = F94L allele; C = normal myostatin allele

LIMOUSIN’S COMMERCIAL CONNECTION

continued on page 28

Winter 2009

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F94L Is the Limousin ‘Power’ Gene continued from page 27 sires with two copies of F94L had birth weight EPDs that were almost 2 pounds heavier than sires with one copy (Table 3). There was a corresponding reduction in direct calving ease (CED) EPD for sires with two copies of F94L, indicating breeders should practice selection for moderate birth weight and acceptable calving ease in combination with selection for F94L. While readily corrected through multiple-trait selection, there appeared to be at least slightly unfavorable effects on maternal traits caused by two copies of F94L. On average, two copies of F94L equated to slightly lower maternal calving ease (CEM), less milk and notably smaller scrotal circumference (SC) EPDs. In contrast, there was no meaningful difference in the average weaning weight, yearling weight, docility and stayability EPDs of sires represented in the two F94L genotype groups, substantiating the “friendly” effects of F94L.

The Role in Selection It is important to remember, although F94L is a powerful gene, many other genes – perhaps hundreds or even thousands – contribute to the total genetic merit of animals for each individual performance trait. For example, among the 36 proven U.S. Limousin sires genotyped as having two copies of F94L, the range in REA EPDs is −0.28 to +1.4 square inches.

Among that same group of homozygous F94L sires, there are proven trait leaders for low birth weight, high milking ability, large scrotal circumference and high marbling, despite pre-

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liminary findings of slightly adverse influences on those traits from F94L. While breeders need more information to evaluate the return on investment in DNA tests and selection for F94L, researchers have identified few other single genes or markers with that magnitude and range of effects. That makes F94L an ideal candidate for inclusion in genome-enabled and -enhanced selection tools for Limousin and Lim-Flex® cattle.

The F94L allele is uniquely prevalent in Limousin cattle and has meaningful, favorable effects on REA, fat thickness, yield grade, retail product yield, tenderness, beef healthfulness and the efficiency with which they convert feed to caseready, retail product. Based on EPD data from a limited number of proven U.S. Limousin sires, F94L appears to have slightly unfavorable – yet manageable – effects on birth weight, direct calving ease, milk production, scrotal circumference and marbling. Testing and selection for that Limousin “power” gene should yield favorable results when practiced in combination with selection based on EPDs and functionality for other economically relevant traits.

Table 3. Mean EPDs for Calving Ease Traits, Milk, Scrotal Circumference by F94L Genotype Birth —- Calving ease —Genotype / No. weight Direct Maternal of F94L alleles * EPD EPD EPD

Milk EPD

Scrotal circumference EPD

AA / 2

3.2

3.1

18.6

0.08

AC / 1

1.4

7.1

4.1

22.1

0.44

Difference

1.8

−3.3

−1.0

−3.5

−0.36

3.8

* A = F94L allele; C = normal allele

Winter 2009

BOTTOM LINE

Limousin Exchange Headlines NALF’s Online Tools

By Brad Parker The Limousin Exchange Bull Listing Service (BLS) is a popular feature of the North American Limousin Foundation (NALF) Web site (www.nalf.org). It allows bull buyers to search for Limousin and Lim-Flex® herd-sire prospects online by clicking the “Limousin Exchange: Bull Listing Service” link on the association’s home page. Both private-treaty and public-auction offerings are included in the searchable database, which typically offers more than 1,000 bulls each year.

Those looking to take advantage of the Limousin breed’s muscle-growth efficiency and complementarity with British breeds can identify a variety of criteria – including state,

LIMOUSIN’S COMMERCIAL CONNECTION

owner, expected progeny differences (EPDs), coat color, polled status, percent blood, sale date, sale type and price – to obtain information about the bulls that fit their specifica-

Winter 2009

continued on page 32

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Limousin Exchange Headlines NALF’s Online Tools continued from page 31 tions. Also included in a bull’s listing are his name, registration number, tattoo, birthdate, pedigree, ultrasound-scan data, owner contact information and additional comments.

Users can sort the results by any trait.

The Limousin Exchange also is a convenient, online marketplace for Limousin and Lim-Flex females and feeder calves. Just like the Bull Listing Service, the “Females for Sale” and “Feeder Calf Classifieds” components allow prospective buyers to search, sort and select on many criteria. The Feeder Calf Classifieds also allow commercial cow-calf producers to post calves for sale in a free, easy-to-use advertisement with worldwide exposure.

The BLS and “Females for Sale” link to listings in the Web site’s member directory, making it easy for buyers to obtain sellers’ contact information when those searches identify their animals.

Evan Whitley, a former livestock specialist at the Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation in Ardmore, Okla., said the Limousin Exchange makes it easier to look for animals with specific traits.

“It’s nice to go to one source to sort through a lot of bulls,” he said of the BLS. “It pointed out those seedstock producers who had the bulls I was looking for.”

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When Whitley was helping a Noble Foundation client locate about 25 bulls a few years ago, the BLS was a huge time-saver. It helped identify the herds that were producing the kind of genetics they sought, even if they did not end up buying a specific bull. Whitley said establishing relationships with new contacts in the seedstock sector is one advantage of using NALF’s online selection tools.

“You still need to call and ask the questions that you’d ask face to face,” he said, but “the Web site is a great place to start making contacts.”

NALF also offers a lot of other helpful information for commercial cow-calf producers online. For example, you can view Limousin herdbook entries via the EPD and pedigree lookup. An animal’s pedigree page includes information about its color, polled status, ancestry, Mainstream Terminal Index ($MTI) value and individual performance measurements.

The site’s “Genetic Evaluation” section includes the latest EPD statistics, percentiles and trends; general sire listing; trait leaders; and downloadable sire summary. New EPDs and updated sire summaries are available on the Web site around Jan. 1 and Aug. 1 each year. The site’s Sire Selector interfaces with the breed’s genetic evaluation to search the current sire summary for bulls with specific EPD profiles and other characteristics.

If you need help locating breed information on the Web, send an e-mail message to limousin@nalf.org or call the NALF office at (303) 220-1693.

Winter 2009

BOTTOM LINE

Limousin Locator Colorado Jan. 12 – National Limousin Sale, Denver, (303) 220-1693 March 7 – Elmwood Limousin Annual Production Sale, Sterling, (970) 522-8195 (see p. 30) Private treaty – Lewis Limousin, Kirk and Iliff, (970) 521-0545 (see p. 9) Private treaty – Magness Land and Cattle, Platteville, (970) 396-6958 (see p. 14–15) Private treaty – Running Creek Ranch, Elizabeth, (303) 841-7901 (see p. 10) Indiana Private treaty – Sennett Cattle Co., Waynetown, (765) 234-2621 (see p. 12) Iowa Feb. 11 – Iowa Beef Expo Limousin Sale, Des Moines, (712) 566-2863 Private treaty – Linhart Limousin, Leon, (641) 340-1306 (see p. 11) Kansas Jan. 31 – Liberty Ranch Annual Bull Sale, Plainville, (785) 737-6053 (see p. 21) Feb. 21 – GV Limousin Production Sale, Garnett, (785) 448-3708 (see p. 3) Minnesota March 27 – Wulf Limousin Farms “Opportunity Sale of 2009,” Morris, (320) 392-5802 (see p. 22–23)

Mississippi Private treaty – Riverdale Ranch, West, (662) 967-2407 (see p. 35) Montana Feb. 17 – Coleman’s HC Limousin Annual Bull Sale, Missoula, (406) 644-2232 (see p. 13) April 6 – Coleman Limousin Ranch 31st Annual Production Sale, Missoula, (406) 644-2300 (see p. 34) Nebraska April 6 – Bullis Creek Ranch “Generations of Predictability 9” Bull Sale, Burwell, (402) 967-3060 North Dakota March 23 – Hager Cattle Co. Third Annual Sale, Bismarck, (701) 525-6363 (see p. 29) Oklahoma March 14 – Kervin–Hall–Coyote Hills “All Black, All Polled” Limousin Bull Sale, Chattanooga, (580) 597-2419 (see p. 24) March 21 – Magness Land and Cattle Southern Division Bull Sale, Miami, (918) 541-5482 (see p. 14–15) Private treaty – Hayhook Limousin, Lexington, (405) 306-5202 (see p. 4)

LIMOUSIN’S COMMERCIAL CONNECTION

Winter 2009

Oregon Feb. 7 – 49th Annual Klamath Bull Sale, Klamath Falls, (360) 871-3642 South Dakota Feb. 26 – Symens Brothers 29th Annual “Muscle Up for Profit” Production Sale, Amherst, (605) 448-2624 Private treaty – Schott Limousin Ranch, McLaughlin, (605) 823-4974 (see p. 32) Texas Jan. 30 – Cowtown Classic Limousin Sale, Fort Worth, (940) 367-4633 (see p. 31) Private treaty – Lawrence Family Limousin, Anton, (806) 997-5381 (see p. 8) Utah Private treaty – Millerberg Limousin, Draper, (801) 566-4665 (see p. 16) Washington Feb. 21 – Washington–Oregon Joint Limousin Breeders State Sale, Eltopia, (360) 871-3642 (see p. 27) Private treaty – DJ Limousin, Port Orchard, (360) 871-3642 (see p. 33) Wisconsin Private treaty – Spring Creeks Cattle Co., Wauzeka, (608) 875-5049 (see p. 28) Wyoming Private treaty – Wilkes Limousin Ranch, Kinnear, (307) 486-5006

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7383 S. Alton Way, Suite 100 Centennial, Colorado 80112-2339