Archive for CDCB

New Genomic Option for Canadian Dairy Breeders to Bypass Herdbook Requirements

Find out how Canadian dairy breeders can now avoid the U.S. herdbook restrictions for genomic evaluations. Could this new choice simplify your breeding efforts?

Canadian dairy breeders are on the verge of an exciting change. Soon, you’ll be able to get genomic evaluations for domestically bred cows without needing to register them in National Breed Association herdbooks. This breakthrough will make it easier for all Canadian-born dairy cattle to receive genomic evaluations based on Canadian standards. Announced at Lactanet’s Open Industry Session, this change will simplify the process for Canadian dairy farmers, reducing the hassle of herdbook registration. Additionally, there’s a proposed fee waiver if you register your cattle promptly.

Genomic Evaluations in Canadian Dairy Breeding: Overcoming Challenges 

Genomic evaluations are essential in modern dairy breeding, predicting future performance based on genetic makeup. Lactanet provides these services in Canada but faces challenges, especially for cows not registered in the National Breed Association herdbooks. 

All genomic testing relies on the U.S. Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding (CDCB), which handles genotype quality assurance and haplotype analysis. The process involves higher costs and longer times, as breeders must go through CDCB directly, particularly for non-registered animals, costing US$6 per animal. 

This system adds bureaucratic layers and financial strain, potentially discouraging breeders from using genomic evaluations entirely. Despite these challenges, genomic testing remains invaluable, allowing precise predictions of an animal’s potential and aiding better breeding decisions. However, until changes are implemented, Canadian dairy farmers navigate an inefficient system, limiting their ability to expand their genetic base and achieve top-rated status for their dairy herds.

Evolution in Genomic Accessibility: Canadian Calculations for All Dairy Breeders

Brian Van Doormaal, chief services officer at Lactanet, has announced fundamental changes that will make it easier for Canadian breeders to obtain genomic evaluations for cows not registered in National Breed Association herdbooks. This shift allows these evaluations to be conducted within Canada using Canadian calculations. Previously, breeders had to work directly with the U.S. Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding (CDCB) for such evaluations. 

Although genomic testing will still occur in the United States, integrating with Lactanet means these genotypes can be shared in Canada. This eliminates the need to navigate the U.S. system for your genomic predictions, saving time and resources. 

This change aims to increase inclusivity in genetic evaluations within the Canadian dairy industry. It expands the genetic base accessible to breeders and leverages Canadian service providers’ expertise and infrastructure. An associated fee may apply, but if an animal is registered within two months of testing, the fee could be waived, offering a cost-effective solution for breeders. 

Lactanet is working with the CDCB on a new record-keeping process to ensure accurate tracking of these evaluations. Non-registered cattle will receive an alphabetic country code, differentiating them from registered animals and streamlining the identification process. This change will also align with other advancements, such as Lactanet’s transition to monthly official evaluations for Canadian females, potentially allowing more dairy cows in Canada to achieve top-ranked status in genetic rankings.

Ensuring Accuracy and Trust Through The Genomic Testing Process 

The genomic testing process is key to accurately evaluating dairy cattle, with the U.S. Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding (CDCB) playing a crucial role. When you send a sample, the CDCB ensures quality through genotype validations and haplotype analysis. While future evaluations will be based on Canadian standards, the core testing and quality assurance will still rely on the CDCB’s infrastructure. This ensures that Canadian dairy farmers get consistent and reliable genomic evaluations, with the added benefit of local calculations.

New Logistics and Fee Structure for Genomic Evaluations 

With the proposed changes, dairy breeders will see new logistics for obtaining genomic evaluations. Currently, the cost is US$6 per animal through CDCB. However, the fee structure might change once done in Canada, though specifics are still pending. 

An exciting part is the potential fee waiver. If you register an animal within two months of testing, the fee might be waived, saving you money and encouraging timely registration. 

Lactanet is working with CDCB on a solid record-keeping system to manage this. Registered animals will still have numeric country codes, while non-registered cows will get unique alphabetic country codes. This ensures explicit tracking and accurate genomic identification, enhancing trust in the genomic data.

Understanding the Logistics of this New Process is Crucial for Dairy Breeders 

Understanding the logistics of this new process is crucial for dairy breeders. While genomic testing will still be done by the U.S. Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding (CDCB), Canadian service providers like Lactanet will handle the submission process. This means breeders can send samples through these providers, easing the workflow. 

Regarding costs, though the exact fee is undecided, sending samples via Canadian providers will incur a charge. However, if an animal is registered within two months of testing, this fee might be waived, promoting timely registration. 

Lactanet collaborates with the CDCB on a robust tracking system to ensure accurate record-keeping. Registered cattle will have numeric country codes, while non-registered cows will get alphabetic codes. This differentiation helps maintain clear genomic identification. 

These logistics aim to make genetic evaluations more accessible and integrated within Canadian dairy breeding, leading to higher genetic standards and better breeding outcomes.

The Bottom Line

This new genomic option is a game-changer for Canadian dairy breeders. It will make genomic evaluations based on Canadian calculations available to all domestically bred cows. Although testing will still happen in the U.S., the process will be more streamlined and affordable for non-registered cattle in Canada. With the rise of automated milking systems and more accessible genotyping, this change is set to roll out later this year, transforming genetic evaluation and breeding for Canadian dairy producers.

Key Takeaways:

  • Canadian genomic evaluations for non-herdbook dairy cows may be available later this year.
  • Testing will still be conducted in the United States by the U.S. Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding (CDCB).
  • Genomic evaluations will be based on Canadian calculations, making them more relevant and beneficial for Canadian dairy operations.
  • The potential change allows all Canadian-born dairy cattle to receive a genomic evaluation, regardless of their herdbook registration status.
  • Fees are yet to be determined but might be waived if the animal is registered within two months of testing.
  • A new record-keeping process is being developed to differentiate between registered and non-registered cows via Canadian service providers.

Summary:

Canadian dairy breeders can now receive genomic evaluations for domestically bred cows without needing to register them in National Breed Association herdbooks. This change simplifies the process for Canadian dairy farmers and offers a proposed fee waiver if cattle are registered promptly. Genomic evaluations are essential in modern dairy breeding, predicting future performance based on genetic makeup. Lactanet, a Canadian service provider, has announced fundamental changes that will make it easier for Canadian breeders to obtain genomic evaluations for cows not registered in National Breed Association herdbooks. The change aims to increase inclusivity in genetic evaluations within the Canadian dairy industry and leverages Canadian service providers’ expertise and infrastructure. An associated fee may apply, but if an animal is registered within two months of testing, the fee could be waived. The new record-keeping process will ensure accurate tracking of genomic evaluations.

Learn more:

August 2024 Genetic Evaluations: Key Updates and Innovations from CDCB and USDA AGIL

Discover the latest updates in genetic evaluations from CDCB and USDA AGIL. How will the new 305-AA yield measurement and Constructed IDs impact your herd?

CDCB and USDA Animal Genomics and Improvement Laboratory (AGIL) implemented essential changes to improve genetic assessment accuracy on August 13, 2024. This paper underlines these critical developments and their advantages for the dairy sector. Supported by USDA AGIL’s innovative genomics research, CDCB is well-known for its exact genetic assessments. Among other improvements, the adoption of Constructed IDs and 305-AA standardized yield measurement highlights their dedication to precision and innovation, increasing the dairy industry’s output and sustainability.

CDCB and USDA AGIL Introduce the New Standardized Yield Measurement Known as 305-AA 

In a step meant to transform dairy genetics, the USDA AGIL and CDCB have unveiled the new standardized yield measurement known as 305-AA. This much-awaited change departs significantly from the mature equivalent (ME) standard, effective since 1935. Standardized yield records now benchmark the average age of 36 months or 305-AA. Inspired by current studies, this adjustment marks a methodological turn to reflect a more contemporary dairy environment.

The new 305-AA yield assessment replaces changes relied upon over the last 30 years and incorporates updated age, parity, and season parameters. The recalibrated changes seek to permit fair phenotypic comparisons among cows of various ages, sexes, and calving seasons. The main objective is to evaluate dairy performance under many settings and management strategies.

One significant modification is adjusting herd averages to approach real yields. Under the former ME method, breed-specific yield projections varied by around 10 percent higher than actual yields. Effective June 12, 2024, the estimates of the 305-AA yield become available via CDCB’s WebConnect for animal and data searches. Moreover, the officially adopted, on August 13, 2024, new 305-AA changes are entirely included in the CDCB genetic examinations.

Table 1. The ratio of mature equivalent to 36-month equivalent milk, fat, and protein yields from 1994 or recent data

Breed1994 FactorME / 36-month SD ratio in recent data
  MilkFatProtein
Ayrshire1.101.0921.0761.067
Brown Swiss1.151.1561.1501.142
Guernsey1.051.0431.0091.013
Holstein1.101.0821.0811.059
Jersey1.101.0791.0631.064
Milking Shorthorn1.151.1101.1001.090

This move from 305-ME to 305-AA offers a perceptive analogy. Recent data shows that standardized yields calculated from the 1994 ME factors are routinely more significant than those adjusted to the 36-month equivalent. This change marks a reassessment of yield projections to more closely reflect the contemporary dairy environment and current dairy animal performance.

A vital component of this shift is the modification in standard deviation (SD) “ME / 36-month” ratios, usually seen to be somewhat greater in earlier data than in recent changes. These little variations indicate calibrating output estimations to fit modern dairy production methods and genetic developments.

For predicted transmitting abilities (PTAs), these changes have significant ramifications. Updated ratios closer to 1.08 for Holsteins (HO) and Jerseys (JE) and generally more tiny numbers for fat and protein point to a minor scaling or base adjustment in PTA values. These changes assist representative assessments of dairy cow genetics, improving the validity and applicability of these measures according to contemporary industry requirements. Thus, a sophisticated, data-driven approach to genetic studies helps the dairy industry by promoting informed breeding and management choices.

Enhancing Precision: Modern Dairy Environments and Refined Seasonal Adjustments

Recent data analysis has improved seasonal adjustments to reflect the effect on lactation yields of the changing dairy environment. Modern architecture and construction methods have lessened the seasonal impact on yields, hence stressing improvements in dairy settings. The revised approach reveals minor variations by estimating seasonal impacts within five separate climatic zones defined by average state climate scores. This change emphasizes the advantages of better dairy conditions, lessening the need for significant seasonal changes and more accurate genetic tests. This method guarantees lactation yields are assessed in a framework that fairly represents current environmental and management circumstances using region-specific modifications, enabling more precise and fair comparisons of dairy output.

Robust Validation: Testing New Factors Across Decades of Lactation Records

The new parameters were tested rigorously using 101.5 million milk, 100.5 million fat, and 81.2 million protein lactation data from 1960 to 2022. The validation focused on the relationships of Predicted Transmitting Ability (PTAs) for proven bulls born after 2000. Results were rather good, with correlations of 0.999 for Holsteins, above 0.99 for Jerseys and Guernseys, and somewhat lower, ranging from 0.981 to 0.984, for Brown Swiss and Milking Shorthorns. These strong connections underscore the dependability of the new elements. The study also observed minor changes in genetic trends: a decline for Brown Swiss and Jerseys and a rise for Guernseys. These revelations help us better evaluate our genes, guaranteeing justice and ongoing development.

Revolutionizing Genetics: The Full Integration of Constructed IDs into the CDCB Database 

When fully adopted by August 2024, Constructed IDs represent a significant turning point for CDCB. Targeting partial pedigrees, particularly for animals without maternal ancestry information, this invention launched in mid-2023 and ends in July 2024. Constructed IDs link approximately 3.2 million animals in the National Cooperator Database to newly discovered relatives, developed by significant research by USDA AGIL using over a decade of genetic technology experience.

This improvement increases the dependability and accuracy of genetic tests. The worldwide influence is significant given these complex interactions across the closely linked U.S. dairy community. More precise breeding choices help directly impacted and related animals to improve their genetic quality and raise U.S. assessments. Designed IDs strengthen the genetic bases for further development by filling critical pedigree gaps.

Refined Criteria and Data Integration: Elevating Heifer Livability Evaluations for Improved Genetic Precision 

Recent improvements in heifer liability (HLV) show how committed the USDA AGIL and CDCB are to accuracy and dependability in genetic assessments. Fundamental changes exclude recent heifer fatalities from 2022–24 and rectify previously missed data resulting from changes in cow termination codes. These wholly integrated reports improve HLV assessments immediately. Improving the speed and depth of evaluations is a crucial modification that calls for a minimum of 1 percent mortality loss annually for the data of a herd to be legitimate. Faster adaptability to evolving reporting methods made possible by this change from cumulative to yearly criteria guarantees current herd health dynamics are faithfully captured. These improvements have generally resulted in a significant increase in the dependability of HLV assessments, particularly for bulls with daughters in the most recent data sets, generating more robust genetic predictions for offspring and informed breeding choices.

Pioneering Genetic Insights: Brown Swiss Rear Teat Placement (RTP) Evaluation

A significant turning point in dairy cow breeding is the introduction of the conventional and genomic assessment for Brown Swiss Rear Teat Placement (RTP). Using about 15,000 assessments from January 2024, CDCB and USDA AGIL accurately calculated the RTP parameters. On the 50-point linear scale, about 80 percent of the evaluations lie between 25 and 35 points. Heritability for RTP is 0.21, somewhat similar to front teat placement at 0.22; repeatability is 0.33.

Ranges for Rear Teat Placement in Brown Swiss

 Predicted Transmitting Abilities (PTA)Reliabilities
Males-2.4 to 3.10 to 98%
Females-3.7 to 2.90 to 79%

For bulls with reliabilities between 0 and 98% and for women between 0 and 79%, the PTA values for RTP in Brown Swiss are -2.4 to 3.1 and -3.7 to 2.9, respectively. This assessment uses exact measures and rigorous statistical techniques and emphasizes genetic heterogeneity within the breed.

Breeding choices depend on this thorough assessment, which helps farmers choose ideal RTP characteristics, enhancing herd quality and production. Driven by reliable, data-based conclusions, the August 2024 release of these assessments marks a new chapter in Brown Swiss genetics.

Refined Precision: Streamlining Genetic Markers for Enhanced Genomic Predictions 

Effective August 2024, the genetic marker update improved the SNPs used in genomic predictions, lowering the list from 78,964 to 69,200. This exact choosing approach removed low call rates, poor genotyping quality, minor allele frequencies, and markers with minimal effects. The X chromosome’s length allowed all SNPs to be maintained there. This update improved efficiency by helping to reduce processing time and storage usage by 12%. About 74% of the deleted SNPs originated from high-density chips.

Five other gene tests—HH7 and Slick, among others—were also included in the update. Confirming the low effect on trait averages and standard deviations, preliminary studies revealed a roughly 99.6% correlation between genomic predictions from the old and new SNP lists. For animals with less dense genotypes or partial pedigrees, this recalibration improves the accuracy of genetic assessments.

Incorporating Genomic Advancements: Annual Breed Base Representation (BBR) Updates

Accurate genetic evaluations depend on annual Breed Base Representation (BBR) revisions. This update, set for August, guarantees that the most relevant genetic markers are included in BBR calculations. Consistent with past upgrades, a test run based on February 2024 data confirmed the stability and strength of the new SNP set. The CDCB maintains BBR calculations at the forefront of genetic assessment by including this improved SNP set, giving dairy farmers the most reliable data for informed breeding choices.

Integrating Cutting-Edge Gene Test Data: Enhancing Haplotype Calculations for Holstein HH6 and Jersey JNS

A significant step forward in genetic assessments is combining Holstein Haplotypes 6 (HH6) and Jersey Neuropathy with Splayed Forelimbs (JNS) direct gene test data into haplotype calculations. By providing thorough gene test results to CDCB, Neogen and the American Jersey Cattle Association (AJCA) have been instrumental in this process. More exact haplotype estimations have come from including these direct gene tests in imputation procedures. Test runs greatly increase performance, Particularly for animals with gene test results and their offspring. This integration improves genetic prediction accuracy and emphasizes the need for cooperation in enhancing dairy cow genes.

The Bottom Line

Incorporating innovative modifications to maximize yield metrics, genetic evaluations, and pedigree correctness, the August 2024 genetic assessments signal a turning point in dairy herd management. These advances improve the dependability and accuracy of tests. While improved seasonal and parity corrections reflect current conditions, the new 305-AA standardizes yield measures for fair comparisons. We designed IDs to decrease pedigree gaps, improving assessments and criteria for Heifer Livability (HLV) and rear teat placement for Brown Swiss. Simplified genetic markers and combined genomic advances such as HH6 and JNS gene testing further improve assessment accuracy. These developments provide consistent data for farmers, enhancing the general health and output of dairy cows. Supported by a thorough study, the August 2024 assessments mark a significant breakthrough and inspire manufacturers to use these innovative approaches for more sustainability and efficiency.

Key Takeaways:

  • The 305-AA standardized yield records, adjusted to 36 months, replace the previous mature equivalent (ME) adjustments.
  • Implemented new factors enable fairer phenotypic comparisons across cows of different ages, parities, and seasons.
  • Seasonal adjustments are now estimated within regional climate zones, reflecting improved management and housing reducing environmental impact on yields.
  • Implementation of Constructed IDs enhances pedigree completeness and genetic evaluation accuracy.
  • Heifer Livability (HLV) evaluations refined through revised modeling and data integrations, particularly focusing on recent years’ reports.
  • Brown Swiss Rear Teat Placement (RTP) evaluations introduced, offering significant genetic insights with traditional and genomic evaluations.
  • Reduction of SNPs from 78,964 to 69,200 for streamlined genomic predictions, enhancing processing time and accuracy.
  • Annual BBR updates incorporate the new set of SNP markers, ensuring consistency and precision in breed representation.
  • Direct gene tests for Holstein HH6 and Jersey JNS now included in haplotype calculations, improving prediction accuracy.

Summary: 

The CDCB and USDA Animal Genomics and Improvement Laboratory (AGIL) have introduced a new standardized yield measurement, 305-AA, on August 13, 2024. This change allows fair comparisons among cows of various ages, sexes, and calving seasons. The revised approach estimates seasonal impacts within five separate climatic zones. Robust validation of the new parameters was conducted using 101.5 million milk, 100.5 million fat, and 81.2 million protein lactation data from 1960 to 2022. Results showed good correlations for Holsteins, Jerseys, Guernseys, Brown Swiss, and Milking Shorthorns. The August 2024 genetic assessments represent a significant turning point in dairy herd management, enhancing the dependability and accuracy of genetic tests. Constructed IDs link approximately 3.2 million animals in the National Cooperator Database to newly discovered relatives, improving genetic quality and raising U.S. assessments.

Learn more:

What Dairy Breeders Need to Know About the Transition to 305-AA Yield Estimates

Learn how the new 305-AA yield estimates affect dairy farming. Ready for changes in genetic evaluations and milk yield predictions?

Significant changes are coming for dairy farmers in the U.S. Starting mid-June, the old 305-ME (Mature Equivalent) yield estimate will be replaced by the new 305-AA (Average Age) standard. This isn’t just an update but a significant improvement reflecting modern dairy practices and environmental factors, providing better tools for herd management and breeding decisions. 

Mark your calendars: On June 12, 305-AA yield estimates will debut in CDCB’s WebConnect data queries. By August 2024, they will be fully integrated into CDCB’s genetic evaluations. This change is based on extensive research and data analysis by USDA AGIL and CDCB, which examined over 100 million milk yield records. 

The industry needs updated tools to make accurate, fair comparisons among cows. This transition and the new 305-AA are based on a 2023 USDA AGIL and CDCB study analyzing millions of milk yield records. 

What does this mean for you? Moving to 305-AA aligns yield estimates with current insights on age, lactation length, climate, and other factors affecting milk production. This leads to more precise and fair comparisons among cows, helping optimize your herd’s performance. 

Stay tuned as we dive deeper into the 305-AA transition, its impact on genetic evaluations, breed-specific changes, and what to expect moving forward.

The New Age of Yield Estimation: Introducing 305-AA

305-AA stands for 305-Average Age. It’s the new method for accurately comparing dairy cows of different ages, climates, and calving seasons. This tool estimates a cow’s lactation corrected to a standard age of 36 months using partial yield measurements from milk tests. It’s a robust update reflecting modern dairy practices.

A New Era in Dairy Production Efficiency 

The shift from 305-ME to 305-AA is a game-changer for the dairy industry. For nearly 30 years, the 305-ME system couldn’t keep up with cow management and genetic advances. But now, the new 305-AA model brings us up to speed, leveraging recent insights into age, climate, and lactation variables for a more accurate milk yield estimate. 

A 2023 study by USDA AGIL and CDCB, analyzing over 100 million milk yield records, showed how outdated the old system was. The new 305-AA promises better decision-making tools, boosting both productivity and fairness in the industry.

What 305-AA Means for Different Dairy Breeds 

The transition to 305-AA will affect different dairy breeds in unique ways. Changes will be minimal for Holsteins, as their data heavily influenced the 1994 adjustments. This means Holstein farmers won’t see minor shifts in their yield estimates or genetic evaluations. 

Non-Holstein breeds will see more significant updates due to more precise, breed-specific adjustments. Ayrshires will experience stable PTAs with a slight increase in milk, fat, and protein yields, especially for younger males. Brown Swiss will see slightly higher overall yield PTAs for younger cows, with older animals maintaining stability. 

Guernseys will find that younger males show an increase, while older cows might see a slight decline in their milk, fat, and protein PTAs. Jersey cows will have a noticeable decrease in yield PTAs for younger males, but older males will benefit from an increase in their evaluations. 

This recalibration means that farmers focusing on non-Holstein breeds can expect more tailored and accurate yield estimates. These changes pave the way for better breed management and selection strategies in the future.

The Ripple Effects of 305-AA on Breed-Specific PTAs

The shift to 305-AA adjustments will have varied impacts on Predicted Transmitting Abilities (PTAs) across different dairy breeds. Each breed will experience unique changes for more breed-specific and accurate assessments. 

Ayrshire: PTAs will stay stable, with younger males seeing a slight increase in milk, fat, and protein yields. 

Brown Swiss: Young animals will see a slight increase in yield PTAs, while older animals remain stable. 

Guernsey: Younger males will experience an increase in milk, fat, and protein PTAs, while older males may see a decrease. 

Holstein: Young males will get a boost in yield PTAs, and older animals will have more stable measurements. 

Jersey: Younger males will see a decrease in yield PTAs, while older males will experience an increase.

Coming Soon: 305-AA Data Goes Live on CDCB WebConnect and Genetic Evaluations.

Starting June 12, 2024, you’ll see the new 305-AA yield estimates in CDCB’s WebConnect queries. This kicks off the move to 305-AA. 

By August 2024, 305-AA will be fully integrated into CDCB genetic evaluations. Phenotypic updates in the triannual evaluations will adopt the new method, affecting PTAs and indices like Net Merit $. 

Rest Easy: July Evaluations to Continue Uninterrupted; August Brings Enhanced Accuracy with 305-AA

Rest easy; switching to 305-AA won’t affect July’s monthly evaluations. Your data will still follow the old 305-ME adjustments for now. However, with the triannual update from August 13, 2024, all evaluations will feature the new 305-AA data, giving you the most accurate yield estimates for your dairy herd.

The Bottom Line

The switch to 305-AA is a big step forward. It uses the latest research and a massive database for more accurate milk yield estimates. This change reflects how dairy management and cow biology have evolved over the last 30 years. With 305-AA, comparing cows—no matter their age, breed, or conditions—is now fairer and more scientific. 

Key Takeaways:

The transition from 305-ME to 305-AA is set to bring significant advancements in yield estimation for U.S. dairy farmers. Here are some key takeaways: 

  • Effective date: 305-AA will be officially implemented starting June 12.
  • Modern alignment: This change reflects current management practices and environmental factors.
  • Updated research: Based on a 2023 study examining over 100 million milk yield records.
  • Breed-specific adjustments: Non-Holstein breeds will see more significant changes due to more precise data.
  • Impact on PTAs: Different breeds will experience unique effects on their Predicted Transmitting Abilities (PTAs).
  • Genetic evaluations: The 305-AA adjustments will appear in CDCB genetic evaluations starting August 2024.
  • Uninterrupted evaluations: The July monthly evaluations will not be affected by this change.


Summary: Starting mid-June, the old 305-ME yield estimate will be replaced by the new 305-AA standard, reflecting modern dairy practices and environmental factors. This transition aligns yield estimates with current insights on age, lactation length, climate, and other factors affecting milk production, leading to more precise and fair comparisons among cows. The new 305-AA model is based on extensive research and data analysis by USDA AGIL and CDCB, which examined over 100 million milk yield records. The industry needs updated tools to make accurate, fair comparisons among cows. The transition will affect different dairy breeds in unique ways, with Holstein farmers not seeing minor shifts in their yield estimates or genetic evaluations, while non-Holstein breeds will see more significant updates due to more precise, breed-specific adjustments. Ayrshires will experience stable Predicted Transmitting Abilities (PTAs), Brown Swiss will see slightly higher overall yield PTAs for younger cows, and Guardeys will show an increase in milk, fat, and protein PTAs.

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