Researchers are looking at ways to use genomic technologies to select breeding animals in beef herds.
“Specifically we’re breeding for feed-efficient herds using estimated breeding values and genomically-enhanced estimated breeding values for (residual feed intake),” says Dr. Carolyn Fitzsimmons of the University of Alberta. Fitzsimmons specializes in gene expression in cattle.
Residual feed intake (RFI) is a measure of feed efficiency in livestock, and is the difference between feed actually consumed and feed required for growth and maintenance. Feed-efficient animals eat less than expected and have a negative or low RFI. Inefficient animals eat more and have a higher, or positive, RFI.