NZ Resets Science Funding Priorities After 30 Years
For the first time in more than 30 years the Government has set a new set of radical priorities for the science it funds - including agriculture.
The programme, initiated in 2021 and supported by CRV, set out to identify low-emitting bulls.
The hypothesis was that these bulls would pass the trait on to their daughters.
Because a relatively small number of bulls sire the next generation of cows, this approach offers a cost-effective and innovative way to introduce low methane emissions into the national herd.
Key Facts
- Research start: 2021
- Organisations Involved: LIC, Ag Emissions Centre, CRV
- Research Focus: Low methane-emitting dairy genetics
- Early Result: Trate identified in bulls and young offspring
- Final Finding: Trait not expressed during lactation
Early Promise From Low-Emission Bulls
Early findings were encouraging, with lower methane emission traits identified in young bulls, and clear evidence these traits were passed on to their growing daughters.
However, the final phase of the research, which measured methane emissions in those daughters once they were lactating, found that this trait does not seem to be expressed.
Future Research to Shift Focus
Executive director of the Ag Emissions Centre, Naomi Parker says while the outcome is disappointing, the findings are still valuable, and the job now is to shape the direction for future research.
"Genetics still can have a meaningful role in reducing gross methane emissions. For beef and sheep, we are still confident in the approach, and we will be feeding the insights from this trial into work underway in these areas. For dairy we will consider taking a different approach that will likely focus on measuring lactating cows for methane production to generate a DNA-based selection criteria."
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Genetics Reduce Methane Emissions in Dairy Cows?
Research shows genetics may influence methane emissions, but current findings suggest traits may not carry through into lactation in dairy cows.
What Did The Methane Study Discover?
The study found that low-methane traits identified in bulls were not expressed in their daughters during lactation.
Will Genetics Still Be Used to Reduce Emissions?
Yes, particularly in sheep and beef sectors, while dairy research may shift toward new measurement-based approaches.
What Are Other Ways to Reduce Methane in Dairy Farming?
Options include feed additives, improved management practices, and new technologies alongside genetic selection.
