OUR deeper understanding of genetics and the new tools available to help the agricultural industry use that knowledge offer an exciting future for breeders of livestock and crops, but it must always be done responsibly and with the consumers acceptance.

That was view of Andy Thompson, Regional Director of breeding company Genus, in his address to the 21st International Farm Management Congress in Edinburgh as he outlined various ways in which the science of genomics was revolutionising livestock production.

"We know we can address challenges like antibiotic resistance, improved animal welfare and the ability to cope with drought or heat in various parts of the world," he told delegates. "But we must carry consumers with us, there must be benefits they understand."

More valuable than identifying individual genes or their DNA is our ability now to consider the wider package of genes in the "genome" and identifying the influence particular groups have on a living organism, be they good or bad. The growing science of genomics is developing our understanding of how we can select for particular traits in the livestock we breed from, such as milk yield, disease resistance or temperament. Techniques like gene editing offer even further options.

"Gene editing is not genetic modification," said Mr Thompson. "We don't add DNA from any other source. The international initiative we are part of involves removing the particular element of the pig genome which binds with a devastating virus disease. Editing means the virus has no way in, while leaving everything else working normally. The technology works, our next step is to gather the evidence to convince the public it is safe, both in terms of animal health and welfare, or anyone eating the offspring. That will take some years."

Market round-up

United Auctions sold 179 store heifers at Stirling on Wednesday to a top of 287.4p per kg and an average of 238p (+11.1p on the week), while 253 store, beef-bred bullocks peaked at 278.3p and levelled at 237.8p (-0.9p). Sixty-two store, B&W bullocks sold to 191p and averaged 165.7p (no comparison).

C&D Auction Marts Ltd sold three prime heifers in Dumfries on Wednesday to a top of 217p and an average of 202p.

In the rough ring 36 beef cows sold to £1344 per head and 174p per kg to average 141.1p, while 47 dairy cows peaked at £1170.05 and 166p to level at 109.7p.

The firm also sold 309 prime lambs to a top of £119 and 265p to average 217.5p (+4.5p).

A nice show of 373 cast sheep saw heavy ewes average £84.12 and light ewes level at £61.01.