Assessing the myostatin variants in beef cattle in South Africa

The data consist of the following 13 genetic variants, breef cattles, estimated breeding values. The GEBV data set included twelve (12) traits namely: age at first calving (AFC), inter-calving period (ICP), scrotal circumference (SC), longevity, direct birth weight (BWDIR), direct weaning weight,  WWDIR), average daily gain.

Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS software (version 27; IBM) and reported as mean ± standard error (SE). An independent t-test was used to identify the statistical differences between groups of animals. The normality of the data was considered using the Shapiro–Wilk test with Levine test used to determine equal variances, and log transformations (log10) were performed where normal distribution was violated. Prior to completing the multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) for the reproductive, carcass, and growth traits, it was necessary to test the assumption that there is no collinearity among the dependent variables; thus, a set of Pearson correlations between all of the dependent variables were performed and all the correlation coefficients were less than 0.80. (ADG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), fat, marbling, and eye muscle area (EMA).