Major project in genetic research developed in one part of UK
Shepards are invited to nominating rams and semen for RamCompare in order to receive information about their animals. RamCompare is using data from throughout the supply chain to inform genetic evaluations and it is entering in the second phase after several Welsh breeders have nominated rams for the first phase.
Texel, Suffolk, Charollais, Meatlinc, Hampshire Down, Blue Texel, Bleu Du Maine, Poll Dorset and Beltex are the breeds included in this research program, informs Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC), who supports this initiative.
RamCompare could be a game changer for Welsh pedigree sheep breeders as it can drive genetic improvement forward through the inclusion of commercial data in genetic evaluations. "Participants in RamCompare will gain feedback on how their stock has performed for commercially relevant traits. New estimated breeding values (EBVs) for carcass weight, carcass fat and carcass conformation are available for animals involved in the project, which can, in turn, be used for marketing rams", specified the association.
Gwawr Parry, HCC’s Industry Development Officer commented, "I would encourage Welsh pedigree sheep breeders to make the most of this unrivaled opportunity. This is a chance to take part in a significant industry project and to also receive highly valuable information on their flock which they can use to promote their rams."
To continue with the second phase of the program the applicants are requested to provide a minimum of 30 doses of semen for use via artificial insemination (AI). The semen will be analyzed at the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) in Northern Ireland to see if it is compliant with both domestic and EU status. For natural service sires, fit and fertile rams are required, with preference given to rams that are shearlings or older.
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