Corriedale eating quality genomics Final Report
Did you know, this project was undertaken to collect data on as many traits as possible, but especially shear force and intramuscular fat content in Corriedale sheep.
| Project start date: | 05 November 2017 |
| Project end date: | 13 November 2021 |
| Publication date: | 04 July 2022 |
| Project status: | Completed |
| Livestock species: | Sheep |
| Relevant regions: | National |
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Download Report
(1.3 MB)
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Summary
This project aims to address the insufficient numbers of Corriedales with phenotypes and genotypes that is required for genomic tools to be utilised by the breed. Without genomics, eating quality traits are difficult to select for accurately and therefor difficult to maintain or improve genetic merit. Progeny from 45 Corriedale sires will be recorded to assist in the development of genomic ASBVs and tools for the Corriedale breed.
Objectives
A. Conduct a sire evaluation program on leading young Corriedale sires with strong genetic links to Merino and other maternal breeds.
B. Conduct extensive phenotyping on lambs including intramuscular fat and, shear force measurements.
C. 50K SNP Genotype Corriedale lambs to enable genomic selection to be utilised.
D. Provide a model for engagement for smaller breeds.
Key findings
The model of engagement with the Performance Corriedale Group worked well as the working relationship between researchers and breeders is strong. In addition, two Honours students have been trained in the project. The project achieved 764 lambs measured for eating quality traits from 44 sires, 37 of which were genotyped. The data will be supplied to Sheep Genetics for reporting of ASBVs.
Benefits to industry
Increasingly Corriedale sires are being used to increase wool value in maternal composite flocks. The data collected adds confidence to stud breeders to maximise genetic progress and their clients to select more profitable rams and underpins the development of a reference population for Corriedales. Furthermore this project also provides a model of co-investment for minor breed to develop a reference population to underpin genomic selection.
MLA action
MLA to continue to investigate the model for on-going investment into reference populations for current and future traits. MLA through Sheep Genetics has included the data collected in this project in the genetic evaluation to enhance ASBVs for sires used in the project.
Future research
The current resource flock strategy of subsidising meat samples and processing by breeders and especially groups with well-designed contemporary groups should continue as the benefits of the data are substantial and the less tangible benefits of working together are significant.
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For more information Contact Project Manager: Peta Bradley |
