Key information

American Angus Association (AAA) stated aim is to elevate US beef cattle industry standards and global consumer satisfaction. AAA is the largest beef registry globally with around 20,000 members, and registering over 300,000 Angus cattle annually. Their database contains around 20 million cattle records and 500,000+ genomic profiles. Angus genetics influence 65% of the US$67 billion beef production, with elite US Angus bulls impacting beef-producing countries like Australia, Brazil and New Zealand. 

Collaboration Highlights

• AbacusBio partnered with Angus Genetics Inc. (AGI), a division of AAA, to revamp their index system crucial for genetic selection decisions. 
• Their $Value indexes integrate economic production values and trait genetic relationships to optimize profitability in a range of US Angus production systems. 

Key Outcomes for Users

• Updated index system aligns with breeders’ and ranchers’ breeding objectives and production systems
• Annual review process ensures continued index relevance by incorporating recent economic shifts affecting the beef value chain 
• Expansion into Canadian Angus and Red Angus breeding programs, tailoring economic selection indexes to specific regional needs 
• Introduction of new traits like cow longevity and stayability, enhancing breeding efficiency and economic productivity
• Improved economic production traits and reduced inefficiencies contribute to sustainable beef cattle breeding practices 

This strategic collaboration has not only advanced genetic selection capabilities within AAA but also positioned AbacusBio as a leader in optimising beef cattle genetics globally, ensuring long-term industry sustainability and profitability.