23
Use of Genomics to Enhance EPDs
Scott P. Greiner, Professor & Extension Animal Scientist, Virginia Tech
Genomic technology provides an additional tool to enhance genetic selection in
beef cattle. Genomic (DNA) tests quantify differences between animals in their DNA
sequence which are associated with differences in genetic merit for various performance
traits. Genomic test results are combined with pedigree and performance information
(weights, measures) which results in a genomic-enhanced EPD (GE-EPD). When all
sources of information are collectively included in the calculation of an EPD (pedigree,
actual performance, genomics), accuracy of the EPD is improved. In very simple terms,
genomic results are an additional source of information used to calculate an animal’s
EPD. Several key points relative to GE-EPDs:
• Increased accuracy on young bulls (reflected in their EPD ACC values). For
many traits, genomic tests provide accuracy similar to having 8-20 progeny
records.
• Genomic tests include parent verification.
• Provides characterization of traits difficult to measure using the animal’s own
performance (maternal traits in bulls).
• Allows EPDs to be calculated for animals which may not have had all EPDs
available previously (ET calves, single animal contemporary groups, etc.).
Bulls which have genomically-enhanced EPDs are denoted with the HD 50K logo in the
catalog.
2015 CULPEPER SENIOR SALE ORDER
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58
405
38
72
47
27
404
21
401
74
37
30
53
57
34
19
49
59
17
13
50
12
18
33
28
65
3
67
601
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14
6
408
407
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32
46
24
35
602
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55
70
39
54
73
71
36
41
604
20
403
44
409
61
22
9
10
23
56
62
