One of the most exciting recent developments in the use of DNA (Genomics) relating to cattle is a process which involves taking tail hairs (or blood or semen) DNA to predict the performance of an animal.
In 2014 several Droughtmaster studs with the support of the Droughtmaster Society, supplied Droughtmaster semen (and in some cases bulls) to the North Australian Female Reproduction Project, which is being run by well-respected scientist David Johnston.
This MLA funded project is identifying the DNA markers associated with optimum fertility in the major breeds used in Northern Australia. Droughtmasters, Brahmans and Santas have been used for this project.
Droughtmaster Society CEO Neil Donaldson said the Fertility Project has retained the female progeny for their ongoing research.
“The steer progeny were not required, but the performance data from the steer portion would be very valuable if combined with the female performance data,” he said.
“To ensure this valuable data was not “lost”, we purchased the steers and with the use of funding from MLA, we’re collecting and analysing performance data from five drops of steer calves.
“We’re collecting data in relation to tenderness and relating that to Bos Indicus content and hump height.
“All steers are being put through the MSA grading process to help cement the breed’s correct status in the grading system.
“This is a very exciting project for the ongoing progress of the Droughtmaster breed.”