Angus HeiferSELECT Generation 2 hits the industry

Angus Australia is excited to advise that Generation 2 of the Angus HeiferSELECT product has been implemented for use by commercial Angus breeders wishing to utilise genomics to help inform the selection of Angus replacement females.

The development of the new generation of Angus HeiferSELECT is the result of 18 months of work with Angus Australia collaboration partner, CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency.

What are the Enhancements to Angus HeiferSELECT?  

1. New Genetic Prediction Traits
   
   Angus HeiferSELECT Generation 2 includes 13 genetic prediction traits (compared to 9 in the generation 1 product). This includes the addition of:

   – 2 feedlot specific traits being Average Daily Gain (ADG) and Daily Feed Intake (DFI).
   – 1 extra carcase trait being Ossification (OSS)
   – 1 resilience trait being ImmuneDEX

   Additionally, the intramuscular fat (IMF) genetic prediction has changed to the commercially relevant MSA Marbling Score (MBL) genetic prediction.

2. Updated Overall Values

   Three new overall values have been developed in collaboration with Abacusbio (a global leader in the development of livestock selection indexes).

   The new values include:
   – Cow-Calf Value (CCV),
   – Feedlot-Carcase Value (FCV) and
   – Total Breeding Value (TBV).

   The overall values are based on the latest selection index economic modelling, and underpinned by current day production parameters.

3. Angus BreedCHECK

   From the newest development at Angus Australia, genomic (DNA) based breed prediction, with a focus on Angus content, is included in Angus HeiferSELECT Generation 2. While this new information is informative by itself for selection decisions, it is additionally important as the Angus HeiferSELECT genetic predictions have been calibrated on a straightbred Angus reference population.

Where do I find further information about Angus HeiferSELECT?

Further information on Angus HeiferSELECT Generation 2 can be accessed from:

• The Angus Education Centre – Click Here
• The Product Brochure – Click Here
• The Technical Specifications –Click Here
• The Autumn 2022 Angus CONNECT Event YouTube video – Click Here

Who do I contact should I have any questions?

If you have any questions about Angus HeiferSELECT please contact:

• Angus Australia – (02) 6773 4600
• Zoetis Animal Genetics – 1300 768 400
• Neogen Australasia – (07) 3736 2134