Terminal Indices Terminal indices combine post-weaning and carcass EPDs into one value, allowing for simultaneous multi-trait selection expressed in dollars per head. The Angus $Beef index includes these EPDs: Postweaning gain (YW-WW), DMI, CW, MARB, RE and FAT. Use indices just like EPDs for comparing the expected difference in progeny between two animals. ANGUS EXAMPLE Sire A $Beef = $190.00 Sire B $Beef = $150.00 $40.00 Calves from Sire A should be worth, on average $40 per head more than calves from Sire B for feedlot and carcass value. $Beef in Angus
Input prices and assumptions for the Angus $Beef formula: FEEDLOT ASSUMPTIONS
Time on feed Ration cost Fed market
170 Days
$240 per dry ton $131 per cwt. live
CARCASS ASSUMPTIONS
Quality Components Prime premium (above Choice) CAB premium (above Choice)
$15.00 $4.00 $11.00 $-25.00
Choice-Select spread Standard discount Yield Components YG 1 premium
$3.50 $1.65 $0.00
YG 2 premium
YG 3 base
YG 4 & 5 discount Avg. carcass wt., lb. Heavyweight discount
$-12.00
861
$-23.00
Genomics
EPDs vs Genomic Scores It is important to remember that genomic scores are just one piece of information that is used to calculate EPDs, and the most accurate selection decisions can still be made using the EPD for a trait rather than the genomic score alone.
101
Genomics: The study of the entire DNA set of an animal.
Predicting with Genomics
Trait
PE 28 21 26 21
Trait
PE 14 18 33 11
Genomics are especially helpful in predicting the genetic merit of young or unproven animals. Depending on the trait, a genomic test can provide EPD accuracy in a young bull equivalent to the accuracy of having sired 8-33 calves. Genomics are also valuable for difficult and/or expensive traits to measure like carcass traits in breeding stock and maternal traits in bulls.
Calving Ease Direct
Heifer Pregnancy
Birth Weight
Calving Ease Maternal
Weaning Weight Yearling Weight Dry Matter Intake Yearling Height
Milk
Mature Weight Mature Height Carcass Weight Carcass Marbling Carcass Ribeye
8
8 9 9
11 13 10
Scrotal Circumference
Docility
12 10
Carcass Fat
Mobridge Livestock • April 30, 2024• Van Beek Angus: 29
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