International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA) Genotyping Milestone

Brangus started with a bold idea: create a breed that can tolerate harsh environments while also producing high-quality beef. While these characteristics were once considered to be mutually exclusive or antagonistic at the least, Brangus breeders set about to prove that it could be done. International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA) was among the first breed associations to apply the single-step genetic evaluation process utilizing genomic data.

“An iconic Brangus breeder was among the first seedstock breeders—of any breed—to experiment with ultrasound to estimate carcass trait differences as far back as the ’80s. It is now a standard practice among leading Brangus breeders to ultrasound every animal they produce,” said Dr. Darrell Wilkes, Executive Vice President of IBBA. “Throughout this journey, the International Brangus Breeders Association and its members have been innovators in genetic improvement. Seventy-five years later, Brangus cows continue to thrive in harsh environments while Brangus steers gain and grade with the best cattle in the industry, with data to prove it.”

Recently, the Association eclipsed 50,000 genomic records in its 1.6-million head genetic database, while the volume of genomic testing only continues to grow each year.

“In the five years I’ve worked with the IBBA genetic evaluation, I’ve seen a continued commitment from the Association and its members to reporting quality genotype and phenotype data for the genetic evaluation,” said Dr. Kari White, a geneticist at Neogen. Neogen has been a longstanding partner of the IBBA, providing genomic testing services for Brangus cattle and actively participating in the genetic evaluation efforts of the Association. “Reaching 50,000 genomic records is a milestone that reflects this commitment from the breeders.”

Genomic research has shown that Brangus breeders have locked in Angus DNA in sections of the genome where important Angus traits are inherited.

“Early puberty, rapid early growth, and high levels of marbling are examples,” Dr. Wilkes mentioned.

Advancements in genomics have allowed Brangus breeders to document these fundamental changes as opposed to simply assuming them based on phenotypic performance. During the constant selection for heat tolerance, Brahman DNA has been retained in the sections of the genome that are important for thermoregulation and insect tolerance.

“Overall, the utilization of genomics has revolutionized the cattle industry by allowing breeders to better understand and maximize the use of sires and dams of high genetic merit,” said Dr. Victor Pedrosa, Technical Senior Director at Neogen. “By identifying and selecting for specific traits through genomics, Brangus breeders can improve the overall quality and performance of cattle, leading to increased productivity, adaptability, and profitability.”

“Brangus breeders will continue to embrace the latest technology in genomics and genetic evaluation, and even greater advancements are eagerly anticipated for the years ahead,” Dr. Wilkes from IBBA concludes.

Neogen works with a variety of breed associations, which we are proud to serve and support. If you are interested in learning more about our genomic testing services, contact your breed association or your local Neogen territory manager today.