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Why Accurate On-Farm Data Matters

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Why Accurate On-Farm Data Matters

The Power of Accurate Performance Data in Wagyu Production

Accurate data collection is essential to any livestock production system that relies on genetic evaluation, herd improvement, and industry advancement. In Wagyu, where the link between DNA and phenotype can be harnessed for powerful insights, the value of precise, consistent data cannot be overstated.

From birth, every data point recorded throughout an animal’s lifetime contributes to a clearer understanding of its genetic merit. This enables producers to identify top- and bottom-performing animals earlier, leading to more informed decisions around breeding, culling, and marketing.

 

Data Drives Better EBVs

The accuracy of Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) is directly tied to the quality of data submitted. Incomplete or incorrect records—such as missing birth dates or inaccurate weights—can distort an animal’s genetic evaluation. In contrast, reliable data strengthens EBV predictions and supports better long-term genetic gain.

Across herds, consistent and accurate data collection contributes to the quality and diversity of the breed’s reference population—the foundation for genomic tools and breed-wide evaluations. A strong reference population leads to more reliable selection tools across the industry.

 

Linking Genomics with Phenotype

Wagyu breeders are uniquely positioned to enhance genomic selection accuracy by combining DNA data with well-recorded performance traits like weight gain or carcass quality. These linkages help trace heritability and strengthen sire and dam evaluations across generations.

 

Data Collection Timeline & Best Practices

DOB (Date of Birth) Critical for adjusting weights by age. Enables fair growth comparisons.
200-Day Weight Captures maternal influence and early growth; dam weight should also be recorded.
400-Day Weight Reflects post-weaning growth and genetic potential for weight gain.
600-Day Weight Indicates mature weight and feedlot suitability; key for long-term selection.
Other traits Fertility, carcass, and health data help inform broader selection objectives.

 

Data Recording Tips

Use standardised templates or software like Helical to ensure consistency

Calibrate weigh equipment and verify date accuracy regularly

Submit data promptly to [email protected]

Train staff on the importance and method of performance recording

Important Notice and Disclaimer

It is very important that you appreciate when viewing the AWA database that the information contained on the AWA database, including but not limited to pedigree, DNA information, Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) and Index values, is based on data supplied by members and/or third parties.

Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information reported through AWA, AWA officers and employees assume no responsibility for its content, use or interpretation. AWA disclaims all liability (including without limitation, liability in negligence) for all expenses, losses, damages and costs you may incur as a result of the use by you of the data on this AWA database and the information supplied by ABRI and AGBU being inaccurate or incomplete in any way for any reason.

Regarding EBVs and Index values, it is very important to appreciate, and you need to be aware that:

  • EBVs are derived using Wagyu Single Step BREEDPLAN technology developed independently by the Animal Genetics and Breeding Unit (AGBU), using the information contained within the AWA database.
  • AGBU is a joint venture of NSW Department of Primary Industries and the University of New England, which receives funding for this purpose from Meat and Livestock Australia Limited.
  • AWA relies solely on advice provided by AGBU and ABRI in accepting Wagyu Single Step BREEDPLAN software.
  • EBVs published in Wagyu Single Step BREEDPLAN are estimates of genetic potential of individual animals and may not reflect the raw animal phenotype.
  • EBVs can only be directly compared to other EBVs calculated in the same monthly Wagyu Group BREEDPLAN analysis.

 

Regarding pedigree and DNA testing results submitted to the AWA, it is very important to appreciate, and you need to be aware that:

  • Animals whose registration identifiers start with PED are Pedigree Recorded Animals. What this means is that the details which Australia Wagyu Association Limited (AWA) used to register the animal were obtained from a Recognised Wagyu Registry Organisation – in other words a Wagyu breed association based outside of Australia. AWA has not independently verified the information with respect to the animal or the details recorded about the animal. You should read AWA’s by-laws which sets out details regarding the definition of a Pedigree Recorded Animal.
  • Future events cannot be predicted accurately. AWA makes no statements, representations or warranties as to the accuracy or completeness of, and you should not rely on, any information contained in the registration details of this animal or their capability to achieve any purpose. AWA disclaims all liability (including without limitation, liability for negligence) for all claims, expenses, losses, damages and costs you may incur as a result of the information set out in the registration details of this animal for any reason being inaccurate or incomplete in any way or incapable of achieving any purpose.
  • Pedigree and DNA data submitted and supplied to AWA may have errors in it which cannot be detected without further DNA testing.
  • Technology may have advanced since a particular test was undertaken so that previous inaccuracies which were not detectable are now able to be detected by current testing technology.
  • AWA estimates that less than 1% of the pedigree entries, ownership or breeding details in the AWA Herdbook may have errors or which may be misleading. For this reason, users ought to consider if they need to obtain independent testing of the relevant animal (if possible) to ensure that the data is accurate.

 

Regarding prefectural content, it is very important to appreciate, and you need to be aware that:

  • Prefectural content is based on the estimation of prefectural origin from Japanese breeding records of 201 foundation sires and 168 foundation dams. As genotype-based parent verification is not used in Japan, and full Japanese registration certificates are not available for all foundation animals, exact prefectural composition for these sires and dams cannot be validated.
  • The calculation of prefectural content for Australian Herdbook animals relies on the accuracy of pedigree records and DNA samples provided by AWA members.
  • The reporting of prefectural content for animals within the AWA Herdbook relies on the calculation provided by ABRI.

If you consider that you do not understand or appreciate the nature and extent of the data provided on this website or the EBVs of a particular animal, then AWA strongly recommends that you seek independent expert advice.

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