Despite drought, one of Australia’s most comprehensive research studies into cattle genes for leanness and improved feed efficiency is progressing well at Struan Research Centre.

The SARDI-based study led by the Cooperative Research Centre for Beef Genetic Technologies will give the cattle industry crucial insights into whether genes for both reduced fatness and improved feed efficiency influence maternal performance and breeding herd efficiency.

With help from our interstate collaborators we have already successfully selected from a pool of more than 10 000 heifers, 154 that show either high or very low Breedplan rib fat estimated breeding values. 

By mating these divergent groups of animals (top and bottom 10 percentiles for rib fat), to average Angus bulls we are confident we will see contrasts in maternal performance and breeding herd efficiency related to genes for rib fat leaness.  The bulls selected have average breeding values, but are below average birth weight.  

While there  were challenges beginning the project in the drought in October 2006, it turned out to be an opportune time to source heifers. Since sourcing suitable animals from NSW, Victoria and South Australia, they have been grown out and mated at Struan. Our recent testing shows 83% are pregnant.

The heifers are now grazing in small experimental groups on Struan’s Technosystem where pasture intake is being measured and the performance of the heifers monitored. Vasse Research Centre in WA is conducting similar work.

Meanwhile the other aspect of our research – to look at genes for feed efficiency is underway.  Animals have been born and reared at Trangie Research Centre for this study and are currently being tested for feed-efficiency, prior to transport to Struan.  SARDI would like to acknowledge collaborators across southern Australia who are supporting the research effort.

AUTHOR: Mick Deland, Senior Scientist, SARDI

CONTACT: Mick Deland, Struan Research Centre, Struan.  Telephone 8762 9100.