Genomic Selection

AI Straws Wanted for Genotyping

ICBF, in conjunction with Teagasc and the AI companies, have recently launched an initiative to incorporate genomic data (DNA) into EBI evaluations. The benefits of this initiative are two-fold;

• More accurate EBI evaluations. Work undertaken in the US, NZ & the Netherlands has indicated that use of genomic data can improve the reliability of the EBI of a calf from the current 30% to some 50%.
• Increased genetic gain in EBI. The inclusion of genomic data in our National evaluations is expected to increase genetic progress by some 50% over the next 10 -15 years.

What is Genomic Selection?

The use of genomic information by breeders is not a new phenomenon. Many farmers and AI companies routinely send hair samples for parentage identification, as well as the detection of genetic defects such as BLAD and CVM.  However, its use in National evaluations is very new, and requires the identification of known sequences within the genome (termed SNP’s) and the subsequent association of these sequences with actual performance for traits such as protein kg, fertility & survival.

What do we need to do next?

ICBF and Teagasc are currently working to establish the associations between the known sequences of animals used in Ireland and their EBI. To do this accurately, we need semen from the AI bulls used in Ireland over the past 30-40 years. Working with the AI companies in Ireland we have already obtained semen from some 800 of these AI sires.  However, there are another 1,930 bulls that we know were used on Irish dairy farms, but for which we have no semen for use in our research. Do you have semen from one or more of these bulls in your semen flask (please see attached listing). If so, we would like to hear from you!

As part of this initiative, ICBF will pay €30 for one straw from each of the enclosed bulls, on a first come first served basis. So, if you have semen from any of the bulls on the enclosed listing, please contact ICBF as soon as possible on 023 20454. Please note that for each of the bulls, ICBF will be operating on a “first come first served basis!”.

We look forward to working with you in this important initiative for Irish dairy farmers and the dairy industry.

 

Funding support from the NDP, Stimulus Research Fund & Teagasc.