Breed Traits

Brahman Association announces new DNA tenderness test

The American Brahman Breeders Association (ABBA) is proud to release a new genomic-enhanced expected progeny difference (GE-EPD) for tenderness that now incorporates DNA information from GeneSTAR® and Pfizer Animal Health.

KISS genomics

At the Cattle Industry Convention in Nashville, CAB introduces GeneMax, a simplified DNA test for commercial Angus cattle.

Cattle Breeding: Embryo transfer

Most female breeding cattle produce one calf per year. The use of embryo transfer (ET) allows a producer to quickly multiply the genetics of the top females in the herd in addition to gaining genetic improvement from purchasing the best semen that is available that comes with using artificial insemination (AI).

Get past sticker shock for good decisions

High prices are all around as cattle producers search for production inputs. Many producers experience “sticker shock” as they react to these prices. A common reaction is to avoid purchasing outwardly expensive items even if the result is that production output suffers. So when is passing on a purchase justified, and when should cattle producers bite the bullet and make a seemingly sizeable investment?

Angus VNR: Information drives beef improvement

Duane Jenkins of Little Robe Angus Ranch near Higgins, Texas, shares his perspective on changes in the cattle information available over the decades.

Cattle Breeds: Docility, addressing the issue

Limousin breeders recognized the importance of temperament in the early 1990s and since that time have greatly improved temperament of Limousin cattle.

Selection for carcass traits (Selection)

Carcass traits are increasingly important for cow-calf producers. According to the Drovers Quality Study, sponsored by Merial, 84 percent of commercial cow-calf producers responding to the survey say they select bulls using expected progeny differences (EPDs) for carcass traits.

First genomic-enhanced EPDs for multiple traits

Angus and Merial have entered into an exclusive agreement to provide breeders with genomic-enhanced expected progeny differences powered by IGENITY.

The impact of disease on carcass traits

Several earlier research trials have indicated that sickness in cattle can affect carcass quality and value, and a new report from the USDA’s Meat Animal Research Center, Clay Center, Neb., supports those findings.