NEWSLETTER FROM NAMIBIAN WAGYU SOCIETY
Dear members,
YOUR LEVY LISTS AND NBSA REGISTRATION
It has come to our attention that there are errors and omissions with the registration data of animals at the NSBA. We urge members to carefully work through their levy lists to make sure that:
Animals that were sold to someone else are indeed transferred to that breeder’s name.
Animals that were bought from someone else are indeed transferred to your name.
Animals that were slaughtered or have died have indeed been removed from the lists.
Animals that have passed the DNA test are indeed registered.
Offspring of animals that have been inspected are indeed registered correctly, since their registration status must change from calf book to registered.
In the meantime, the NWS has addressed a letter to the chairman of the NSBA, highlighting the above problem issues. We have the impression that there are capacity issues that need to be addressed. We are asking to get a dedicated “Wagyu go-to” person at the NSBA that can assist us.
MEMBER CONTRIBUTION:
We thank our member, Dr. Fred Kars, an animal scientist, for another contribution below:
Variance for herd improvement
The effect of genetics and environment on the performance and the heritability of a trait was discussed in the June newsletter. Without proper selection, there will be considerable differences within a herd. The amount of variation in a population is measured and expressed as the Variance. Application thereof allows selection for
herd improvement. Without variation, there is little opportunity for improvement. That is why most breeds introduce genetics from other breeds to improve certain traits and variance, e.g. milk production. Most breeds are therefore actually purebreds or composites. When selection for a particular trait has consistently been
applied in a herd, as with line breeding, resemblance of the trait between individuals will tend to become similar.
Variance is very much underestimated. A feeding trial at Sernick feedlot, Kroonstad, consisted of 74 mainly fullblood black Wagyu from 6 different herds. The results indicated considerable variation for average daily gain, feed conversion ratio, eye muscle area and marbling:
Trait | Min | Max | Average |
ADG kg | 0.9 | 2.4 | 1.7 |
FCR kg | 4.6 | 10.8 | 7.1 |
EMA cm | 43 | 74 | 58 |
Marbling % | 1.6 | 6.4 | 3.1 |
Variance is used to determine breeding values, for example, Estimated Breeding Value is expressed as
e.g. EBV = (weight of individual – average weight of group) x heritability.
In conclusion, the traits quoted in the results of the trial, have considerable economic value. Feed costs are high and a premium for marbling. Selection for improvement of cattle performance must firstly be based on accurate performance measurements to determine EBV’s and then visual appraisal.
ACKNOELEDGEEMENTS:
Bradfield, M., Results from Sernick tests
Falconer, D. S., Quantitative Genetics
MARKET INFORMATION:
72 Wagyu animals were slaughtered over the past 3 months, of which 49 for export and 23 for the local market. An average MS6 was achieved, which is commendable!
MEMBERSHIP & ANIMAL NUMBERS:
Just for the sake of interest: We now have 27 registered members, of which 3 unfortunately are suspended due to non-payment. The number of animals registered till end June (financial year end) of every respective year, has developed as follows:
2022 – 2103 animals
2023 – 3523 animals
2024 – 4117 animals
We foresee a steady and continued growth in numbers, which will accelerate once the drought is over and export slaughter capacity will be more available. All in all, a very positive development!
With kind regards
Joachim Cranz
NWS PRESIDENT
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