Breeder perspectives on fat and female management

Abstract

Seedstock breeder’s perspectives on topics associated with maternal productivity were investigated through the use of qualitative in-depth semi-structured interviews. Qualitative content analysis of interview data yielded a considerable divergence in attitudes to female management with regards grazing management, body condition score (BCS) fluctuation and the utilisation of body fat reserves. Variation in these attitudes were associated with divergence in perspectives on the importance of selecting for positive (> 0) rib and rump fat estimated breeding values (EBVs) for female fertility, or selecting for neutral or negative (≤ 0) fat EBVs to assist yield, particularly with regards commercial steer progeny. These results demonstrate that amongst seedstock breeders targeting similar end markets, substantial variation in animal selection and management exists that requires further characterisation to ensure breeding programs and animal management are optimal.