DNA Assignment for profitable production decision

ROGBERG-MUÑOZ, A; JP LIRÓN; MV RIPOLI; EI FRANCISCO; EE VILLEGAS-CASTAGNASSO; DM POSIK; P PERAL-GARCÍA; G GIOVAMBATTISTA

Amsterdam, Países Bajos

Congreso; 31th International Conference on Animal Genetics; 2008

International Society for Animal Genetics

Extensive animal production can compromise relation between productivity and information; when both are necessary, technology can be useful. Wagyu breed is known for its marbling capacity and for improving carcass quality. Feedlot feeding system is more expensive than pasture, making economically important to decide which animal will be feedlot fattened. This study was done in a pasture extensive, commercial herd. 164 Angus and 26 half Wagyu/Angus dams were artificial inseminated with Wagyu, and mated after with Angus bulls. At 15 months, animals were moved for 300 days to a feedlot and Breed assignment was performed (there was no more semen available for paternity). DNA was extracted from hair and eleven microsatellites were genotyped. Wagyu percentage was determined using Structure 2.2 software, Angus and Wagyu animals were included as control populations. From the 190 dams, 29 animals were Angus sired and 161 Wagyu sired. Ultrasound IMF is being scanned every two months, and all the animals Wagyu sired assigned (50% Wagyu or more) have satisfied expected grade and this was significantly higher; this will be confirmed at slaughter stage. This method appears to be adequate for select animals when breed assignment is economically important, i.e. for animal buyers for long term feedlots.