The proven formula for meat quality

Terminal sire breeders involved in the Meat Quality Genomic Calibration Programme (South Island Genomic Calibration, or SIGC flock) are leading the way using the latest genomic profiling tools from GenomNZ and selecting top-performing rams early. Genomic-enhanced breeding values (GEBVs) are delivered on young lambs before weaning, enabling early selection for meat quality without compromising other terminal traits.

Selection on meat quality via the genomic test has been achieved while making faster genetic progress for other terminal traits. As evidenced in Figure 1, the New Zealand Terminal Worth with Meat Quality Index had increased as a result of the industry implementation of meat quality genomic breeding values over the past seven years. The collection of detailed meat quality measures in the SIGC progeny underpins the Meat Quality Index and enables predictions for the terminal sire industry through their flocks’ genetic linkage to the SIGC flock.

The 80K SNP chip enables early selection decisions on both New Zealand Maternal and Terminal traits. These include facial eczema, parasites, meat quality, lamb survival and methane emissions.

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The AgResearch Sheep Genomics 80K SNP chip is developed by scientists to deliver leading-edge technologies to sheep breeders.

Here are five ways this practical tool for farmers can help them stay ahead when breeding

1. Make better, faster breeding decisions The 80K SNP chip provides access to thousands of genetic markers, tracking associations between specific regions of the genome and valuable traits. This empowers data-driven breeding decisions, replacing guesswork with precision.
2. Pick your best lambs early With the 80K SNP chip, you can identify top-performing animals right from birth. No need to wait for them to grow or produce offspring. This means faster genetic progress and less time spent raising animals that won’t make the cut.
3. Boost accuracy for hard-to-measure or late-in-life traits Traits like disease resistance, longevity, survival, feed efficiency, methane or meat quality are tough to measure. By use of genomic calibration (SNP chip + phenotype), breeders can use genomic selection to get a clearer picture of an animal’s genetic potential.
4. Mate selection Genomic data helps you track inbreeding and maintain genetic diversity. This is good for long-term flock health and resilience.
5. Future-proof your operation Genomic selection sets you up to use advanced genomic prediction models. The 80K SNP chip delivers gBV as well as providing gene marker tests GDF8 (Meat Yield and Fat Yield), GDF9 (Number of Lambs Born), BCO2 (yellow fat), Inverdale (Fecundity), Booroola (Fecundity), Microphthalmia, Scrapie, along with other SNP markers currently under validation.