It has been shown that most traits among animals, both desirable and desirable, are genetically determined and hence inheritable. This knowledge has transformed animal rearing practices in recent years. Using information from beef cattle genetics, it is possible for farmers to determine the quality of their yields if they have an idea of the genetic make-up of animals in their herds.
Veterinarians are closely involved in the propagation of animals even with the introduction of newer practices. Most of them have been trained in genetic studies of animals and are therefore strategically positioned to make decisions relating to herd quality. The veterinarians not only collect DNA samples for testing but also offer producers invaluable advice to farmers on herd improvement.
As a producer, one must have some basic knowledge on animal inheritance patterns if one is to realize the full benefits of this technology. Some of the concepts that are involved are fairly simple and easily understandable as long as one has interest. Having a veterinarian close by may be helpful to help in the clarification of issues that may not be very obvious.
Apart from its use in promoting positive traits is a heard, DNA testing also helps in reducing the chances of genetic abnormalities. One of the commonest abnormalities is what is referred to as developmental duplication or polymelia. In this condition, animals develop extra limbs that emerge from the poll, shoulder or the back. Since the condition is heritable among some breeds, there is need to intervene to prevent its transmission. During droughts when there is need to depopulate a herd, only the animals with the high genetic quality are retained.
EPDs (Expected Progeny Differences) are terms that are central to animal propagation. The terms refer to values that are given to animals as a predictor of genetic quality of their offspring. EPDs are used in the selection new herd bulls, heifers or cows. Animals with favourable EPDs are preferentially chosen.
Using EPDs in decision making is undoubtedly challenging for the novice. On most occasions, there is need for formal training before one can make sense of the abbreviations that are used and interpret the values that are attached to them. Some characteristics that can be predicted by EPDs include, among others, feed efficiency, weight gain and carcass differences for offspring of genetically different animals.
In most cases, the phenotypic characteristics of an animal are an outward expression of the genetic composition. DNA testing is in some cases expensive for producers and in such cases, producers can use these attributes in making decisions. Characteristics frequently used include height, weight and general size.
Genetics continues to cement its place in modern animal production. It has become particularly important to commercial producers who aim at producing products of the highest possible quality. Over the years, the number of markers that are used in the testing has increased significantly which has led to a higher accuracy of the process. At the same time, smaller panels of tests can now be used to choose the animals with the highest quality as the most sensitive and specific parameters have been identified.
Veterinarians are closely involved in the propagation of animals even with the introduction of newer practices. Most of them have been trained in genetic studies of animals and are therefore strategically positioned to make decisions relating to herd quality. The veterinarians not only collect DNA samples for testing but also offer producers invaluable advice to farmers on herd improvement.
As a producer, one must have some basic knowledge on animal inheritance patterns if one is to realize the full benefits of this technology. Some of the concepts that are involved are fairly simple and easily understandable as long as one has interest. Having a veterinarian close by may be helpful to help in the clarification of issues that may not be very obvious.
Apart from its use in promoting positive traits is a heard, DNA testing also helps in reducing the chances of genetic abnormalities. One of the commonest abnormalities is what is referred to as developmental duplication or polymelia. In this condition, animals develop extra limbs that emerge from the poll, shoulder or the back. Since the condition is heritable among some breeds, there is need to intervene to prevent its transmission. During droughts when there is need to depopulate a herd, only the animals with the high genetic quality are retained.
EPDs (Expected Progeny Differences) are terms that are central to animal propagation. The terms refer to values that are given to animals as a predictor of genetic quality of their offspring. EPDs are used in the selection new herd bulls, heifers or cows. Animals with favourable EPDs are preferentially chosen.
Using EPDs in decision making is undoubtedly challenging for the novice. On most occasions, there is need for formal training before one can make sense of the abbreviations that are used and interpret the values that are attached to them. Some characteristics that can be predicted by EPDs include, among others, feed efficiency, weight gain and carcass differences for offspring of genetically different animals.
In most cases, the phenotypic characteristics of an animal are an outward expression of the genetic composition. DNA testing is in some cases expensive for producers and in such cases, producers can use these attributes in making decisions. Characteristics frequently used include height, weight and general size.
Genetics continues to cement its place in modern animal production. It has become particularly important to commercial producers who aim at producing products of the highest possible quality. Over the years, the number of markers that are used in the testing has increased significantly which has led to a higher accuracy of the process. At the same time, smaller panels of tests can now be used to choose the animals with the highest quality as the most sensitive and specific parameters have been identified.
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