Genomic PTAs coming soon
By Dairy Herd staff
| Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Beginning in January, genomic predicted transmitting abilities (PTAs) will be available for use. This new tool will enable you to more accurately predict an animal’s true genetic merit, Mike Cowan, vice president of research for Accelerated Genetics, told audiences last week at the Professional Dairy Producers of Wisconsin’s Production Management Symposium.
The difference is significant. Previously, using traditional parent averages, you could expect 35 percent accuracy in predicting the performance of an offspring. Using genomic PTAs, you can now predict with 65 percent accuracy, explains Cowan.
“It is a powerful tool for selecting among animals with identical or near-identical pedigrees,” he adds. The technology can be used across families within breeds and is not sex- or age-limiting.
The tool was developed following the sequencing of the bovine genome. It is now possible to find large numbers of genetic markers that helps identify the location of key production traits within an animal’s DNA. Less than a year ago, new technology was developed to complete this test more quickly than ever before at a more reasonable price.
“Since March, nearly every bull entering most genetics company’s testing programs has been genomically tested,” says Cowan.
In addition to the significant benefit of improved accuracy, it is expected that the new test will reduce inbreeding, reduce parentage errors and enhance genetic gain by reducing generational intervals.
