RePRO BI is the only multi-breed genomic prediction offering genetic insight into eight traits proven to boost profitability and productivity. This is a breakthrough test allowing all breeds to be compared, as well as mixed and crossbred animals to have an accurate genomic prediction.

As producers, it is important to understand the underlying genetics of the herd that push your business towards sustainable profitability. This genomic test allows producers to understand the genetic potential of their herd across growth, fertility and adaptation traits, allowing for selection pressure and genetic gain.

With a simple DNA sample, producers can access powerful traits including:

  • Poll/Horn

  • Breed Composition and Heterosis

  • Genomic Breeding Values:

    • Age at puberty

    • Ability to conceive whilst lactating (P4M)

    • Incidence of fly strike

    • Tick burden

    • Weight

    • Hip height

    • Body condition score

    • Temperament

NEXT GBV RUN 20th January

NEXT GBV RUN 20th January

THE THREE most important APPLICATIONS FOR REPRO BI

Bull Assessment and Buying

Bulls have a profound genetic impact on the herd and will directly influence a herd’s performance within a single year and can have lasting effects for over 20 years. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the bulls purchased or bred for your herd are positively contributing to the genetics.

RePRO BI allows bulls of any kind to be assessed across eight traits and ranked, in order to ensure bull selection and breeding can be backed by a mixture of science and physical conformation.

HEIFER BASELINES

Heifers are the “freshest” genetics within the female herd and doing genomics on a small group (20-50) from the heifer cohort can give you a good indication of your female herd’s strengths and weaknesses. The herd profile report utilises a group of GBVs to visually indicate which traits are strongest and which traits are weakest across your herd.

This assessment can help inform bull buying and breeding as you can identify complementary genetics to introduce into your herd.

ADVANCED reproductive techniques

Before conducting artificial insemination or an embryo transfer program it is vital that you ensure the genetics that are being amplified include traits that are important for your herd. Semen straws can be used in place of a TSU ear notch and tested using RePRO BI. This will give you an indication of the strengths and weaknesses of the bull which may be used over the majority of your herd.

RePRO BI is an easy, accurate and cost-effective way to ensure your investment in an AI or ET program is beneficial.

What Is A GBV?

GBV (genomic breeding value) is a prediction of how an animal will perform and the potential genetics it will pass to its progeny. Each animal receives a GBV as well as a ranking which will let you know how they rank compared to the population.

  • Genomic testing of cattle, also known as DNA testing or genotyping, is a process used to analyse the genetic makeup of individual animals. This technology allows farmers to better understand the genetic traits present in cattle, such as disease resistance, meat quality, and fertility characteristics.

  • 1. Sample Collection: The process starts with collecting a sample of DNA from the animal. This can be done using various methods, such as collecting hair follicles with roots intact, blood samples, ear tissue samples, or semen. Tissue samples are preferred as they are more robust and easily stored. These are collected in a TSU (tissue sampling unit).

    2. DNA Extraction: Once the sample is collected, the DNA needs to be extracted from it. This is typically done in a laboratory setting using specialised kits and protocols designed to isolate DNA from the sample material. The extracted DNA is purified to remove any contaminants that could interfere with subsequent testing.

    3. Genomic Profiling: The extracted DNA is then analysed to obtain a genomic profile of the animal. This involves genotyping specific genetic markers or regions of interest across the animal's genome. These markers are chosen based on their known associations with traits of interest. High-throughput genotyping technologies, such as microarray-based SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) arrays, are commonly used for this purpose.

    4. Data Analysis: Once the genotyping is complete, the resulting data is analysed to identify the specific genetic variants present in the animal's genome. This analysis may involve comparing the animal's genotype to reference genomes or databases of known genetic variants associated with particular traits. Statistical methods and bioinformatics tools are used to interpret the data and identify genetic markers that are linked to desirable traits.

    5. Trait Prediction: Based on the genetic markers identified through genomic testing, breeders can make predictions about the animal's phenotype, or observable traits. These predictions can inform breeding decisions, such as selecting animals with the most desirable genetic traits for breeding purposes. However, it's important to note that while genomic testing provides valuable insights into the genetic potential of an animal, other factors such as environmental conditions can also influence its actual phenotype.

  • The RePRO BI bundle gives producers genomic breeding values (GBVs) on eight traits including: age of puberty, ability to rebreed, height, weight, body condition score, tick and fly lesions and temperament. The bundle also includes Poll/Horn and breed composition.

  • All data is yours and always will be yours. Black Box is more than happy to share with breed societies or other parties with your consent.