Annual Enhancements to TransTasman Angus Cattle Evaluation – December 2024
Angus Australia is pleased to announce several important enhancements to the TransTasman Angus Cattle Evaluation (TACE), scheduled for implementation in the December 2024 analysis.
The 2024 enhancements will focus on three key areas:
1. Advancements in Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs)
2. Expansion of Selection Indices
3. Genetic Evaluation Model and Pipeline Enhancements
1. Advancements in Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs)
TACE will introduce two new EBVs, being the transition of Mature Body Condition (MBC) and Mature Cow Height (MCH) from Research Breeding Values (RBVs) to Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs). This transition will provide Angus breeders with EBVs focussed at making breeding decisions related to cow performance. Additionally, the Structural Soundness EBVs will see updated percentile graph descriptions for easier, more intuitive interpretation.
2. Expansion of Selection Indices
In response to the growing demand for Angus genetics in the dairy sector, Angus Australia will also launch a new Angus on Dairy Research Selection Index. This index will assist dairy farmers in selecting Angus genetics for beef production from dairy herds. The growing interest in producing quality beef from dairy cattle highlights the importance of this new tool, designed to improve the genetic selection process for dairy beef production.
3. Genetic Evaluation Model and Pipeline Enhancements
The 2024 updates will also include several enhancements to the genetic evaluation pipeline and model itself. These improvements are designed to better manage the growing number of genotyped animals and better address issues such as duplicate genotypes (including those from identical twins) and sex discrepancies. These updates ensure that TACE remains accurate and reliable as the volume of data continues to increase.
Collaboration with Industry Partners
These exciting advancements are the result of ongoing collaboration with leading research and service partners, including the University of New England (UNE), the Animal Genetics & Breeding Unit (AGBU) and the Agricultural Business Research Institute (ABRI). Their expertise has been essential in ensuring that the latest research is incorporated into the TACE evaluation process.
Christian Duff, General Manager of Genetic Improvement at Angus Australia, explained, “These updates demonstrate Angus Australia’s commitment to providing breeders with the most advanced genetic tools available. For instance, transitioning the Mature Body Condition and Mature Cow Height RBVs to EBVs is a significant milestone, driven by focused research and the growing number of phenotypes being collected by our members.”
He added, “The Angus on Dairy Research Selection Index is another important step forward, responding to the increasing interest in using Angus genetics to enhance beef production from dairy cattle.”
Ongoing Support for Angus Australia Members
To ensure that all members are well-prepared for the December updates, Nancy Crawshaw, Acting Extension Manager at Angus Australia, announced that comprehensive explanatory materials will be distributed to Angus Australia members throughout November. These resources will provide clear guidance on how the changes will affect breeding decisions and how to make the most of the new tools.
“We encourage our members to reach out with any questions they may have about the 2024 TACE enhancements,” said Ms. Crawshaw. “Whether before or after the December update, our team is here to support breeders as they navigate these exciting enhancements.”
Stay Updated on TACE Enhancements
Angus Australia members are encouraged to visit the Angus Australia website and read the Angus Weekly electronic newsletter for more detailed information on the 2024 TACE enhancements. Updates will also be shared across Angus Australia’s social media channels throughout November and December.
For further information, please contact:
Nancy Crawshaw
Acting Extension Manager
Phone: +61 2 6773 4643
Email: nancy.crawshaw@angusaustralia.com.au
Hanlie Jansen
Extension Officer
Phone: +61 2 6773 4641
Email: Hanlie.Jansen@angusaustralia.com.au
Christian Duff
General Manager Genetic Improvement
Phone: +61 2 6773 4620
Email: christian@angusaustralia.com.au
Website: www.angusaustralia.com.au
