Interpretive Summary: Development of a prototype genetic evaluation for teat and udder score in American Angus cattle

By: Rudi A McEwin, Kelli J Retallick, Stephen P Miller, Andre Garcia

Estimated breeding values provide an estimate of the genetic merit of an individual for specific traits helping to identify animals with superior genetic potential for growth rate, milk production, meat quality, disease resistance, and more. Over recent years, American Angus Association members have visually scored cows for teat size (TS) and udder suspension score (US), amassing approximately 42,000 records on approximately 24,000 cows. Proactively recording data and exploring new breeding directions allows breeders to be “ahead of the curve” in regard to animal health and productivity. TS and US have been shown to influence calf and cow health, well-being, and productivity. TS and US were found to be moderately heritable herein, suggesting reasonable genetic gain can be made given some selection pressure. Additionally, genetic relationships between TS and US, with other economically important traits are low, suggesting a change in one trait will not influence change in another. This study has also demonstrated that an accurate genetic evaluation can be produced. If an evaluation is made available to the membership, Angus breeders are encouraged to submit annual teat size and udder suspension scores on their cows, to continue to improve model accuracy and expedite genetic improvement.

Read the full article in the Journal of Animal Science.