DNA Marker Results and Their Application
Using DNA Marker Data
With little traditional genetic prediction information available for traits such as tenderness and feed efficiency, ABS is utilizing DNA marker data as a first step in improvement for these traits. ABS offers the largest selection of bulls with the most favorable gene combinations for tenderness and feed efficiency in the industry. These bulls represent diverse pedigrees and outstanding overall genetic strength in addition to their value for tenderness and feed efficiency. In many cases we have taken these bulls beyond DNA markers and characterized their entire genetic contribution through a structured progeny test program. The Circle A Sire Alliance allows us to characterize genetic value of a sire for tenderness, feed efficiency and profitability based on his progeny’s performance. Progeny testing for these traits is a step beyond DNA markers as it accounts for all the genetic variance of the trait. DNA markers account for the portion of variance due to those specific genes; progeny test measures all the genes that affect the trait.