Value of Genetic Information for Management and Selection of Feedlot Cattle

We estimate the value of using information from genetic marker panels for seven economically relevant feedlot cattle traits. The values of using genetic information to sort cattle by optimal days-on-feed are less than $1/head for each of the traits evaluated. However, the values associated with using genetic information to select cattle for placement are as much as $38/head. The most economically relevant genetic traits are average daily gain and marbling. It would not be profitable at the current testing cost of $38/head to sort cattle by optimal days-on-feed, but it could be profitable to use the genetic tests for breeding cattle selection.