Breeder perspectives on fat and female management
Date
2009
Authors
Lee, S.
Nuberg, I.
Pitchford, W.
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Conference paper
Citation
Proceedings of the eighteenth conference : Matching genetics and environment : a new look at an old topic, Barossa Valley, S. A., 28th September - 1st October 2009 / Association for the Advancement of Animal Breeding and Genetics: pp. 600-603
Statement of Responsibility
S. J. Lee, I. K. Nuberg and W. S. Pitchford
Conference Name
Association for the Advancement of Animal Breeding and Genetics Conference (18th : 2009 : Barossa Valley, South Australia)
Abstract
Seedstock breeder’s perspectives on topics associated with maternal productivity were investigated through the use of qualitative in-depth semi-structured interviews. Qualitative content analysis of interview data yielded a considerable divergence in attitudes to female management with regards grazing management, body condition score (BCS) fluctuation and the utilisation of body fat reserves. Variation in these attitudes were associated with divergence in perspectives on the importance of selecting for positive (> 0) rib and rump fat estimated breeding values (EBVs) for female fertility, or selecting for neutral or negative (≤ 0) fat EBVs to assist yield, particularly with regards commercial steer progeny. These results demonstrate that amongst seedstock breeders targeting similar end markets, substantial variation in animal selection and management exists that requires further characterisation to ensure breeding programs and animal management are optimal.
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© Association for the Advancement of Animal Breeding and Genetics, 2009