Genomic foundation for a sustainable herd
Setting a specific genomic breeding strategy to improve the performance of the low performing cows and to reduce rearing costs.
Last updated on March 24th, 2023
In collaboration with Neogen
Why does it matter?
Milk production is a partially inherited trait. Poor matching between cows and sires results in less healthy and less productive cows, which results in increasing costs overtime.
How did we solve this?
We carried out genetic testing on 58 herd characteristics and traits (e.g. milk yield, milk fat and protein content etc.), which enabled the creation and implementation of a tailored breeding strategy, without having to wait multiple generations for the same results. We then used a Dairy Dashboard to provide animal ranking and next steps for each animal, based on their ranking. For instance, top performing females can be inseminated with sexed semen.
By implementing a tailored breeding strategy, cow longevity is expected to increase by 79,5 productive days. The milk solids are also expected to increase from 1,4kg to 1,7kg/cow/day. Additionally, breeding strategies based on genomic testing help to optimize rearing replacements that meet minimum standards and reduce costs.
Opportunities for other farms?
Efficient genomic breeding strategies can be implemented on all farms. It helps to valorise the animal value by having more insights on breeding decisions.
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