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Animal genetics is the study of the principles of inheritance in animals. Animal breeding is the application of the principles of animal genetics with the goal of improvement of animals. Beef Cattle type and performance are determined by heredity (an animal’s genetic makeup) and environment to which cattle are exposed. Knowledge of genetic principles In 1983, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (Beef Business Bulletin, June 1983) reported about 25% of the calves produced in the United States each year are of such poor genetic makeup (quality) they will not return a profit to any segment of the cattle industry (cow-calf, stocker, feeder or packer). Genetic improvement can be accomplished through selection and mating systems. A purebred producer generates genetic improvement almost exclusively through selection (use of EPDs – Expected Progeny Differences). Selection refers to the decision of using some animals as parents of offspring and culling others. Commercial producers also generate genetic improvement through selection, but they use mating systems, particularly crossbreeding. Beef Cattle Breeds A COWMAN'S CHOICE Beef Production from Straightbreds and Reciprocal Crosses of Angus, Brahman, and Charolais Cattle |
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