Page 11 - Turihaua 2021 Bull Catalogue

DEFINITION FOR GROWTH EBVs
EBV’S FOR BIRTH WEIGHT:
Birth weight is a major factor in calving ease. Use the EBV’s to select against birth
weight if you are having calving problems. The lower the EBV here, the lighter the
calves will be born.
EBV FOR 200 DAY WEIGHT AND MILK:
The vealer producer should place emphasis on the 200 day growth and milk genes.
If a bull is to be used as a terminal sire, growth is most important. If a bull is to be
used to breed replacement heifers with superior milking and mothering ability, then
consider the “milk genes” (200-day milk).
EBV FOR 400 DAY WEIGHT (YEARLING WEIGHT):
Yearling weight EBV’s are a measure of the animal’s ability to grow to 400 days of
age (can be measured from 301-500 days). It should be used by producers who
wish to sell yearling cattle or finish cattle before they are 2 years old
EBV FOR 600 DAY WEIGHT:
Final weight EBV’s are computed for growth 600 days of age (can be measured
at 501-700 days of age). In production systems for heavy steers or bullocks this is
important. It is the best prediction of an animals mature weight.
MATURE COW WT EBVs:
Mature Cow Weight EBVs are estimates of the genetic differences between animals
in cow weight at 5 years of age. Moderation in cow weight is desirable for reducing
herd feed costs, it is also often associated with lower overall growth potential.
Consequently, mature cow weight and early growth performance need to be
carefully balanced to optimise overall herd productivity.

DEFINITION FOR CARCASE EBVs
The objective of carcase EBV’s is to assist in selection for an improvement in %
carcase yield or total carcase yield and finishing pattern.
FAT DEPTH EBVs:
Scanning at the rib and rump allows for assessment of differences of fat distribution.
Positive EBV’s indicate animals which will breed progeny with more fat than average,
and negative EBV’s indicate leaner types.
EYE MUSCLE EBVs:
The EMA EBV is measured in square cm’s. It is an indicator of the animals muscle
content. The larger (more positive) this EBV is, the more muscular the animal. It is a
prediction of total lean meat growth and is positively associated with yield.
INTRAMUSCULAR FAT EBV (%):
This is an estimate of the genetic difference in the percentage of intra-muscular fat
at the 12/13th rib site in a 300kg carcase. Depending on market targets, larger more
positive values are generally more favourable.

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