Dear WSA Members and Breeders,
We hope this message finds you well. As part of our commitment to advancing the Wagyu breed in South Africa, we are pleased to inform you of the launch of the Beef Genomics Project Phase 2 (BGP2), which began in April 2024. This project is crucial for enhancing our collective genetic understanding and improving the overall quality of Wagyu beef in South Africa. To achieve our goals, we need your active participation and support in meeting the allocations set for the Wagyu Society of South Africa (WSA).
WSA Allocations for the first year of BGP2 (April 2024 – March 2025):
Genotypes
We need your commitment to genotyping your animals. This can be done using DNA samples from either live or slaughtered animals stored in the biobank. It is essential to improve the linkage between genotypes and carcass data. Your contribution here is vital for us to meet our allocated numbers.
Feed Tests (Residual Feed Intake)
We request breeders to identify and contribute a minimum of 5 to 6 animals from their herds for feed testing. The selected animals should be of the same sex (either all male or all female) and have an age difference of no more than 60 days between the youngest and oldest. All animals in the contemporary group must also be genotyped. Please note that contemporary groups cannot be smaller than 5 animals.
Carcass Scanning Data
Animals with carcass scans performed from April 2024 are eligible for a subsidy. The society will allocate subsidies to carcasses with complete performance data (weight and pedigree). Additionally, a genotype must be generated for the carcass, using DNA samples from the biobank. The subsidy provided for carcass scanning can also be used to offset genotyping costs.
How You Can Help
Your participation is crucial to the success of this project. By contributing to the genotyping, feed tests, and carcass scanning, you help us achieve our targets and strengthen the Wagyu breed’s genetic foundation. Please contact us to confirm your participation and schedule the necessary tests and data submissions.
Thank you for your continued support and dedication to improving Wagyu genetics in South Africa.
Warm regards,
Tanya Pieterse
WSA Technical Officer
118 Henry St, Westdene, Bloemfontein, 9301
