Detection of gene markers linked to carcass and meat quality traits in a tropical beef herd.

Gene markers were used to detect genes responsible for genetic variation in carcass and meat quality traits in a tropical beef herd. Progeny from first cross Charolais x Brahman sires were grass finished to export specifications and a range of carcass and meat quality traits were measured. A total of 153 markers providing 81% genome coverage were analysed on 3 11 progeny from two sire families. Significant effects for one or more gene markers were detected for most traits with the estimated size of effect ranging from 0.8 to 1.7 phenotypic SD. In particular, gene markers were detected for tenderness, marbling, and predicted yield. The markers are currently being evaluated in industry herds to assess their utility in genetic evaluation schemes and breeding programs.