UltraBeef Ultrasound Services strives to bring you top quality carcass ultrasound images, while improving beef quality and genetics throughout various breeds of cattle in Canada. Carcass EPDs are becoming common in this era when more economically important traits are being added to national cattle evaluation programs. Traditionally, carcass traits were evaluated solely using progeny tests. Also, f
or bulls to be evaluated in such a program, he must produce progeny on which carcass data are collected. This is a process that typically requires about two years beginning at the point when a bull is, at a minimum of 13 to 15 months of age. Bulls are typically at least 3 to 4 years of age before carcass data are available from his progeny that can be used for national cattle evaluation. A more efficient method would provide carcass EPDs on bulls at younger ages. Ultrasound offers the opportunity to enhance carcass EPDs so that effective selection and marketing decisions can be made with regard to improving carcass merit. Several breeds have already begun building carcass and ultrasound databases and plan to implement national or even North American carcass evaluation programs. It is important for breeders to understand the benefits of ultrasound data and national cattle evaluation for carcass traits. Producers are encouraged to contact their respective breed associations or beef improvement groups for more information. The Measurements You Receive:
Ribeye Area (square inches)
Rump Fat Thickness
Rib Fat Thickness
% IMF (Intramuscular Fat)
