Exploring definitions of daily enteric methane emission phenotypes for genetic evaluations using a population of indoor-fed multi-breed growing cattle with feed intake data

Summary

This study addresses the genetic basis of enteric methane emissions in beef cattle by deriving heritability estimates and genetic parameters for multiple definitions of daily and cumulative methane measurements. Heritability for methane increased substantially with longer averaging periods, ranging from 0.09 for spot measures to 0.43 for the full test period average, whilst moderate to strong genetic correlations with dry matter intake were observed. The findings provide parameters necessary for implementing genetic selection strategies to reduce methane emissions in beef cattle populations.

Regional applicability

The study's multi-breed beef cattle population and use of GreenFeed systems is directly relevant to UK beef production, where genetic improvement is a policy lever for reducing livestock greenhouse gas emissions. The derived genetic parameters and breeding value methodology could inform UK genetic evaluation schemes and breeding decisions in both commercial and pedigree beef herds, though farm-specific validation may be warranted.

Key measures

Heritability estimates for CH₄ and CO₂; genetic correlations between CH₄, CO₂, and dry matter intake; estimated breeding values (EBV) for nine CH₄ trait definitions; individual animal emissions records from 1,508 multi-breed growing beef cattle

Outcomes reported

The study derived heritability estimates and genetic correlations for multiple definitions of enteric methane and CO₂ emissions in growing beef cattle, using GreenFeed monitoring systems across varying measurement periods (spot measures to 20–114 d test averages). Estimated breeding values were generated for nine alternative methane trait definitions and validated against phenotypic performance.

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