Genetic Defects

[cbcr]

While it is known that all species of beef cattle have genetic defects, conditions and abnormalities present in their DNA.  Some breeds do not register animals that are carrier, other will register females that are carriers but no males, and other allow for the registration of carrier animals male of female.  The only rule is if a carrier is allowed to be registered is that no animal that results from 2 carrier animals being mated is eligible.

Also we have seen where some of the foreign countries allow for the registration of animals with genetic conditions as well, but again not the mating of carrier to carrier.

Also understand that with increasing advancement in technology other genetic defects, conditions and abnormalities will be discovered as well.

What is the opinion of those that frequent this board as to what should be done about genetic defects, both from a registry standpoint and a breeder standpoint.

 

[HerefordGuy]

Here are some links to my thoughts.
http://beefmagazine.com/cattle-genetics/truth-every-living-thing-genetic-defect-carrier
http://connect.ksre.ksu.edu/p1s5q9x50x5/?launcher=false&fcsContent=true&pbMode=normal
http://steakgenomics.blogspot.com/2013/08/cattlemen-can-avoid-passing-on-broken.html

I would be very interested to see what other people think.

 

[Freddy]

WE need more honest breeders and we would not have a lot of these problems ....

 

[BTDT]

You're right Freddy, but it is what it is, and if people keep doing business with unscrupulous people, then those people will continue their lying behavior.

As for my herd, I will avoid carriers and anything that has a dirty pedigree that is not tested (I am suspicious by nature).  My clients, which are both purebred and commercial producers, do not want carriers, or anything questionable, so therefore, I produce what they want and what makes me money.

I do not buy into the fact that carriers are "better" than non-carriers. I watched a video from a "top producer" that stated that carriers were better due to the bone and hair. Pardon me if I chuckle but that is simply not true.  You just have to be a better breeder, and manager to produce those high quality calves.  And if you really want the honest truth, commercial cattleman do not want hair and bone in the feed lot. Both kill the yield score. And a hairy critter in a mud lot just doesn't do well.

As for the associations, I think EVERY animal should be tested for parentage and pedigree and posted on their pedigree and registration papers. Then, let the buyer determine if they want to purchase the animal or not. Yep, it will add to the cost, but should also increase the value of the animal. I know, because it is what I do.