WichitaLineMan":10g3ywh5 said:
What about that big NEGATIVE fat EPD?
WLM-
Your question regarding the "Negative Fat EPD" is an acute observation! That is certainly a factor to
consider in your selection process of either purchasing progeny seedstock or semen from this bull.
HOWEVER - here is a good example of how "Single Trait Selection" can affect the decision-making processes of a breeder's desire to "Make NO mistakes" in his selection protocols of Sire selections for the Genetics of his herd in the future.
Analyzing this bull from a Phenotypical point of view, he is close to being as perfect a specimen as one would wish to see. Now, if we start picking him apart from a Genetic or EPD aspect (as is appropriate and necessary for
every breeder seeking to improve his seedstock genetics), an astute observer will discover several factors which he would like to see improved upon. But that is the entire purpose of
understanding and using that knowledge to rationalize and compensate for faults in the selection of the
cows to whom you breed this bull, rather than bow your neck, flip your stubborn switch, and refuse to capitalize on his positive qualities! The "Negative Fat EPD" can be addressed with future matings and cow selections with POSITIVE Fat readings, and not "throw out the baby with the bath water". The excellent and high heritable factors can be incorporated into one's herd, and the lesser undesirable traits can be 'selected out' at later matings without losing the overall tremendous Phenotype and Genotype 'package' available in this one bull.
After wiping the drool from one's chin, it can be seen that acquiring the EPD and Phenotype package available in this bull could escalate a breeding program
ad infinitum, or - to put it in English - "'til the cows come home!"
DOC HARRIS