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Ag News
Genex to start genomic testing of sires
Published Wednesday, October 29, 2008 at 07:36 AM
"This is truly an exciting time. The USDA's discovery of the genotyping process and the subsequent incorporation of genomic information into sire summary evaluations will dramatically change this industry," Doug Wilson, Genex Chief Operating Officer, explains.
Genomic testing of male and female cattle identifies elite genetics. Utilizing these elite animals in breeding programs can shorten the generation interval and increase the rate of genetic progress especially in low heritability traits. This, in turn, can increase the profit potential of dairy herds.
With confidence in the future of genomics, Genex has taken an aggressive approach and enhanced its programs to most effectively utilize this new information.
Currently all females within the GENESIS MOET (Multiple Ovulation Embryo Transfer) program have a genomic test completed. Therefore, the bull dams with the highest genetic value have been identified and are being used accordingly.
Genex has genomically tested over 1,200 young sires. The genomic test results increase the reliability of the animal's genetic evaluation, as genomic predictions are significantly more reliable than merely the parent average alone for all 26 tested traits (five yield traits, five fitness traits, 16 linear traits and Lifetime Net Merit). In the future, a sire's trait reliabilities will continue to increase as the sire is sampled through the Genex QuantumTM sampling program and adds milking daughters to his proof.
"With the January sire summaries, semen from several young sires will be routinely available in the Genex active lineup. These young sires have been pre-selected based on their high-ranking DNA profile as a result of genomic testing," states Wilson.
Changes have also been implemented in the sire procurement process to ensure top genetics are sourced for the future. All sampled bulls are tested, and generally all bull calves are being genomically tested prior to acquisition.
"Dairy producers across the world will soon experience the biggest change in the artificial insemination industry since the advent of frozen semen," remarks Wilson. "Genomic selection is going to positively impact our members and customers and will help to improve their bottom line."
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