What Is i50K Testing?

i50K  testing uses a sample of each of our bull’s DNA to dependably determine their GE-EPDs (genomic-enhanced expected progeny difference), indexes, parentage verification and genomic percentile ranks through genomic testing.

What are MVPs?

MVPs or Molecular Value Prediction are the predicted genomic breeding values for animals, based on the sum of the effects of the associated markers, expressed in units of measure for the trait. Similar to EPDs, MVPs rank animals for genetic merit and are expressed as deviations in performance from a set base-point for each trait. One-half of the difference in genomic breeding values between animals is transmitted to offspring.

What are Percentile Rankings (%)?

Percent ranks are based on the animal’s MVP for each trait as compared to the overall population of Black and Red Angus animals in the Pfizer global database. Rank values indicate the ‘top’ position of the animal in the population, with lower values generally indicating higher and more favorable genetic merit for most traits. Traits of exception may include milking ability, yearling and mature height, mature cow weight and fat thickness, where lower rank values indicate genetic merit for higher levels of milk and larger size, and higher associated feed requirements, and potentially less maternal adaptability (fleshing ability), respectively.

Calving Ease Direct

Describes differences in genetic merit for the likelihood of unassisted births in first-calf heifers, expressed as a trait of the progeny. Higher MVP values and lower ranks are preferred, especially when selecting sires for use on replacement heifers for easier calving progeny.

Birth Weight (BW)

Quantifies genetic differences in birth weight, with lower and moderate MVP values and ranks generally desired for ease of calving.

Weaning Weight (WW)

Measures difference in genetic merit for adjusted 205-day weaning weight, with higher MVP and lower rank values indicating heavier weights.

Yearling Weight (YW)

Indicates differences in breeding value for adjusted 365-day weight, with higher MVPs and lower ranks equating to genetics for heavier yearling weights.

Milking Ability (MA)

Evaluates differences in genetic merit for the maternal component of calf weaning weight, predominantly due to milking ability of dams (or daughters). Genetic potential for milking ability should be matched to available feed resources, which implies that intermediate MVP and rank values are likely optimum for many production systems.

Scrotal Circumference (SC)

Describes genetic differences in age at puberty as indicated by adjusted yearling scrotal circumference. Larger MVPs and lower ranks for scrotal circumference equate to genetics for earlier and more desirable age at puberty in both bulls and heifers.

Marbling Score (MS)

Quantifies genetic differences in USDA marbling scores at a constant age, with higher MVPs and lower ranks indicating higher levels of marbling and generally more desirable quality grades and associated carcass premiums.

Ribeye Area (REA)

Describes genetic variation in carcass muscularity as measured by ribeye area between the 12th and 13th rib, at a constant age. Larger MVPs and lower ranks for ribeye area favorably impact USDA yield grades and associated carcass premiums.

Molecular Value Prediction – Feedlot Index ($MVPFL)

Predicts net return from combined genetic merit for feedlot (FL) gain, dry matter intake, carcass weight, as well as USDA quality and yield grades (marbling, rideye area and fat thickness). The index assumes approximately 160 days on feed consuming concentrate rations and carcass value derived from a Certified Angus Beef (CAB) grid. Higher MVPs and lower ranks indicate more desirable combined genetic merit.