A Genomic and Phenotypic Investigation of Feed Efficiency and Growth Traits in Targhee and Rambouillet Sheep
2025
Daniel Schaub | Christian J. Posbergh
The U.S. range sheep industry uses estimated breeding values (EBVs) as part of their breeding objectives to increase post-weaning weight. The study objective was to quantify the relationship between lamb growth EBVs, feed intake, and feed efficiency. Eighty-one range ewe lambs were enrolled in the study to measure residual feed intake (RFI) over two 42-d periods at both the weaning and yearling stages. The ewe lambs&rsquo: post-weaning weight EBVs (PWWT EBVs) were linearly associated with their phenotypic traits. Preliminary genome wide associations (GWAs) were also performed with Dry Matter Intake (DMI), RFI, mid-test body size, and average daily gain (ADG) and Ovine 50K SNP genotypes. Post-weaning weight EBVs were associated with dry matter intake (DMI) (p <: 0.05) but had no association with residual feed intake (RFI) (p >: 0.05) in both experimental periods. However, PWWT EBV was predictive of mid-test body weight in both periods (p <: 0.05). A single SNP at Oar2:68,812,505, located within DMRT2, was associated with DMI and RFI in the second experimental period (Bonferroni corrected p <:0.05). While selecting for higher post-weaning weight range ewes may increase feed consumed due to a larger body size, it was not associated with feed efficiency.
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