P.PSH.0848 - Genetics R&D: Wagyu Net Feed Intake data collection and analysis
This project aimed to establish an NFI EBV for Wagyu cattle.
| Project start date: | 14 April 2017 |
| Project end date: | 06 March 2024 |
| Publication date: | 07 May 2024 |
| Project status: | Completed |
| Livestock species: | Grass-fed Cattle |
| Relevant regions: | National |
Summary
The AWA established an alternative model for Sire Progeny Testing, incorporating NFI. Test sires and their cohorts of commercial progeny will be genotyped, with the progeny inducted and fed at the Kerwee Feedlot. This set of progeny will then be processed and carcase assessed at John Dee abattoirs in Warwick QLD. Other NFI feedlot testing facilities may also be used eg. Tullimba Feedlot. The data will be submitted to BREEDPLAN for analysis.
Objectives
• An estimated 30 sires per year NFI tested and carcase assessed, totalling 150 sires over the five-year project period.
• establishment of an NFI EBV for Wagyu cattle
• determination of the relationship of the crossbred progeny to the Wagyu reference population using the newly-developed Crossbred Wagyu Test
• calculation of genetic parameters for the development of a Wagyu specific NFI EBV
• development of $Index values that include Net Feed Intake.
Key findings
The Australian Wagyu Association’s Wagyu Sire Progeny Test Program, incorporating Net Feed Intake (NFI) testing and recording of carcase data, has completed the induction, NFI testing, feeding and slaughter of its seventh cohort of 162 animals, representing 45 sires. The progeny has been inducted into the feedlot, genotyped, NFI tested, feedlot growth, health and carcase data recorded and entered in the AWA system.
Benefits to industry
An NFI EBV for Wagyu cattle.
MLA action
MLA has provided a published summary of this project on the R&D website.
Future research
Australian Wagyu Association can complete further testing and analysis as required for the industry and the Wagyu breed.
More information
| Project manager: | Sarah Hassall |
| Contact email: | reports@mla.com.au |
| Primary researcher: | Australian Wagyu Association Limited |
