The use of genomics in the management of livestock

Variation among animals exists at all stages of our livestock supply chains. In contrast, most manufacturing supply chains possess little, if any, unintended variation within each segment. This variation is generally an unwanted nuisance. However, when properly managed, it can provide opportunities to target multiple product end-points and turn-off dates in a dynamic manner. Moreover, optimal management can lead to high degrees of compliance with the needs of the processing segment of the supply chain and/or end-users. Management decisions can be divided into initial group formation (e.g. mating groups, feedlot entry groups) and ongoing changes to the management plan in the light of new information (including market forces, weather and genetic status of animals). In both cases, the best pattern of decision making depends, explicitly or implicitly, on the predicted effect of these decisions on future animal and processing performance. The present paper provides an overview of key factors that affect these predictions, and hence optimal management, and emphasises the potential role of genetic and genomic information for increasing focus and improving profitability in the beef supply chain.