New Zealand's Breeding Values Working for Farmers
NEW ZEALAND - Initial results from the Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) Genetics beef progeny test show that estimated breeding values (EBVs) for calf weaning weights are delivering on what they predict.
26 August 2016
1 minute read
The test is being run across five large commercial properties and involves about 2200 cows and heifers each year. Its goal is to determine how bulls of different types perform under comparable commercial conditions. It aims to put a dollar value on the worth of superior genetics – from both the perspective of breeding cow performance and finishing stock’s carcass attributes.
B+LNZ Genetics general manager Graham Alder said: “The most significant result so far is around the estimated breeding value for weaning weight. More than 80 per cent of the expected weaning weight advantage predicted by estimated breeding values is being realised on New Zealand commercial farms.”
Mr Alder says farmers should be very reassured by the results. “They were achieved across the country on five large-scale farms, across different breeds and with both highly-proven bulls and bulls that could be purchased by commercial farmers at most bull sales.
“The key point is the calf weaning weight EBV will largely deliver what you expect. So, if you want heavier calves, choose bulls with heavier 200 Day Weight EBVs.”
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