Abstract
One of the goals of the National Center of Applied Reproduction and Genomics (NCARG) is to demonstrate in real-world settings the potential of new technologies. To this end, we evaluated the predictive ability of the Zoetis GeneMax Advantage genomic prediction. The GeneMax Advantage test analyzes tens of thousands of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) to predict the genetic potential of a commercial Angus female. Genetic predictions are provided for Calving Ease Maternal, Weaning Weight, Heifer Pregnancy, Milk, Mature Weight, Dry Matter Intake, Carcass Weight, Marbling, and Yield. Indices of economically important traits are estimated on an index score (1–100 scale) and are reported in three indices; Cow Advantage Index, Feeder Advantage Index, and Total Advantage Index. Producers can use the scores and indices to make selection, culling, and mating decisions. To measure the accuracy of the trait predictions, data from commercial Angus females and their progeny at the University of Missouri Thompson Research Center was utilized to analyze Weaning Weight, Milk, Marbling, Fat Thickness, Ribeye Area and Carcass Weight. Progeny phenotypic data was matched to the respective dam, and the genomic predictions were then compared to the phenotypic data using correlation and linear models in R software. Linear models accounted for differences in sex, birth year, and the random effect of sire. Interestingly, all genomic predictions had correlations with progeny phenotypes that were significantly different from zero (P-value < 0.05). Likewise in the linear models, genomic predictions for all analyzed traits were significantly associated with calf performance (Table 1). Academics, farmers and ranchers, and extension professionals can trust the effectiveness of GeneMax Advantage genomic predictions in commercial Angus cattle.