The genomic testing of dairy heifers in Australia is revolutionising the way farmers approach breeding and genetic selection in their herds. The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) has conducted an analysis that showcases the significant impact that genotyping services have on the profitability and genetic merit of dairy herds.
When comparing the most engaged herds, which use genotyping services for 75-100% of their dairy heifers, with the least-engaged herds testing 0-25% of their heifer calves, there is a remarkable £193 difference in the average Profitable Lifetime Index (£PLI). This substantial gap highlights the importance of harnessing genetic technology to drive profitability in the dairy industry.
Maximising Profit Potential Through Genetics
Head of animal genetics for AHDB, Marco Winters, emphasises that improving genetics is a cost-effective and sustainable method to enhance a herd’s long-term performance. By utilising genetic indexes tailored to increase profitability, farmers can directly impact their farm’s bottom line. The difference in profit potential between the best and worst herds can amount to a significant sum, illustrating the financial rewards of prioritising genetic improvement.
The theoretical value of this genetic difference equates to around £19,300 for a typical 175-head herd. However, actual margins from farm business accounts reveal an advantage of over £50,000 for herds with a substantial genetic disparity. These numbers underscore the substantial gains that can be achieved by focusing on genetic advancements within a dairy operation.
The Rise of Genomic Testing in Australia
In Australia, there has been a notable increase in the number of genomic tests conducted on dairy heifer calves. With approximately 100,000 calves tested, representing 20% of the recorded herd, this trend is set to rise to 35% by the end of the year. The adoption of genomic testing is no longer limited to elite producers, as technological advancements have made it accessible and beneficial to a broader range of farmers.
Despite the growth in genomic testing, there have been instances of misidentification among animals, including errors in assigning sires or dams. Approximately 17% of calves have their sires updated during genotypic analysis, with issues stemming from incorrect sire records or missing information. This revelation underscores the importance of accurate genetic information for making informed breeding decisions and preventing inbreeding within herds.
Unveiling Genetic Trends Among Australian Producers
Australian producers have embraced genomic testing since its introduction in 2012, contributing to significant advancements in breeding strategies and genetic selection. An analysis of the top and bottom herds reveals a shift in breeding focus over the years. Progressive producers engaged in genetic testing have transitioned from prioritising milk production to concentrating on health, management, and fertility traits.
The evolution in breeding priorities has led to improved genetic outcomes, with top-performing herds demonstrating a proactive approach towards genetic advancement. By leveraging genetic information to enhance fat percentage and other key traits, producers can maximise their herd’s performance and commercial viability. The data showcases the benefits of informed breeding decisions based on genetic insights.
Taking Action Through Genetic Benchmarking
Farmers can actively benchmark their herd’s genetic performance using the AHDB’s Herd Genetic Report, available to all producers engaged in milk recording. This tool allows farmers to assess their herd’s Profitable Lifetime Index and genetic potential relative to industry standards. By leveraging genetic benchmarking tools, producers can identify areas for improvement and optimise their breeding programs for enhanced profitability.
As Australian dairy producers navigate evolving industry trends and technological advancements, genetic testing remains a pivotal tool for driving herd performance and profitability. By embracing genotyping services and leveraging genetic insights, farmers can position their operations for long-term success in the competitive dairy market.
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