IVF R&D takes aim at high carcase value genetics

BarnettAngus has engaged Dr. Richard Fry’s Speed Breed company in an R&D project to speed-up genetic gain of superior animals using new IVF technology being developed at the Werribee laboratory in Victoria.

Mr Mark Barnett of BarnettAngus, Westbury, Tasmania said “I am excited about how bovine reproduction technologies using in-vitro fertilisation can rapidly replicate superior animal genetics while supporting the health of the donor females. We can continually harvest oocytes from our best genetics even while they are pregnant.

We have a six donor R&D project that is testing the boundaries of harvesting oocytes pre and post-pregnancy while also evaluating recipient pregnancy rates.

Being able to annually achieve between 20 and 40 calves from each donor enables the highest quality donors to be used and their progeny to be proven with greater accuracy and predictability, faster”.

“When getting involved in this IVF technology it is important to de-risk the project cost with a deep understand of genomics and being crystal clear on your breeding objectives,” Mr. Barnett said.

“We are very focused on carcase quality improvement and high marbling production. To produce a progressive and complete package this must come with high fertility, moderate birth weight, and rapid growth rates data if it is to represent great value to the industry”.

Mr. Barnett believes the Angus breed can take back the Wagyu marketing edge with a line of high marbling, high carcase value genetics. Given the breed’s sufficient genetic variation we are able to accelerate improved carcase values from a grass feed natural environment, and the IVF R&D project will assist in realising this vision.