Innovative Method to Identify Nitrogen-Efficient Cattle

A groundbreaking study conducted by the University of Queensland reveals that plucking a single tail hair can significantly aid beef producers in pinpointing the most nitrogen-efficient cattle. This innovative approach could potentially result in increased profitability and resource efficiency within the beef industry.

According to lead author and Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation PhD candidate Brandon Fraser, measuring nitrogen levels in tail hair can identify cattle with superior nitrogen efficiency and better responses to urea supplementation. “We want to identify animals that can gain weight more rapidly and efficiently, particularly relevant for cattle in northern Australia, where performance can significantly drop in the dry season due to low-quality grass,” Mr. Fraser explained.

By selectively breeding the top 25% of the most efficient cattle, producers can enhance herd quality and produce more efficient calves in subsequent generations. “This translates to reduced costs for producers and consumers alike,” he added.

Enhancing Beef Production with Non-invasive Techniques

Previous research indicated that cattle losing more nitrogen showed impacted growth rates, making quantifying losses a tedious task for large herds. However, this recent study, supported by Meat & Livestock Australia, utilizes a non-invasive method by analyzing tail hair of Brahman steers fed different diets.

“This study highlights the potential for non-invasive efficiency measurement without the need for special treatment,” remarked Mr. Fraser. This shift in methodology could streamline cattle evaluation processes and enhance production outcome predictions.

Prof Luis Prada de Silva

Co-author Associate Professor Luis Prada e Silva affirmed that cattle able to preserve nitrogen demonstrate significant growth advantages. “Good genetics prevail regardless of supplementary feeding,” he asserted. Recognizing that animal efficiency in northern regions hinges on nitrogen preservation opens new avenues for targeted nutrition strategies within beef systems.

Looking ahead, Prof. Prada e Silva emphasizes the necessity for genetic companies to facilitate a better understanding of cattle genetics. “Whether through commercializing tail hair analysis or identifying DNA markers, producers need timely insights without waiting multiple generations,” he stated. Integrating traits such as fertility and resilience into genetic evaluations will be crucial for future advancements.

For more details on this innovative research, click here.

Source: QAAFI – The Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation is a research institute at The University of Queensland, established with and supported by the Department of Primary Industries.