Scientists at the University of Adelaide's Davies Livestock Research Centre (DLRC) have unveiled the most comprehensive cattle genome ever assembled, a breakthrough expected to improve Wagyu breeding and enhance beef marbling. The research delivers a clearer picture of cattle genetics than any previous reference. "This new Wagyu genome provides a much more complete and accurate view of the genetic blueprint behind one of the world's most prized beef breeds," said study co-lead author Paulene Pineda from the University of Adelaide. By revealing more of the Wagyu genetic makeup, researchers have created a powerful tool for identifying traits that influence quality and profitability. "The Wagyu genome provides a foundational genetic resource to identify variants responsible for marbling and other traits affecting profit," said Professor Wayne Pitchford, Director of the University of Adelaide's Davies Livestock Research Centre and a co-author of the study. Using the new genome, the team identified hundreds of previously unknown genes and uncovered far more structural genetic variants than earlier reference genomes allowed. Researchers say the impact of this work goes well beyond Wagyu cattle. "Our new cattle genome means breeders now have a better tool that will allow for greater precision when identifying and selecting for traits like marbling, fertility and disease resistance -- not only in Wagyu, but other cattle breeds as well," she said. The findings arrive at a time when Australia's beef sector continues to grow. Recent export data shows the industry is now worth more than $1 billion. "Together, we pioneered the trio binning method for genome assembly. While the new genome offers unprecedented detail, researchers say there is still more work ahead. "In this study, we successfully assembled the first complete cattle X chromosome and four autosomes. Note: Content may be edited for style and length. Scientists Just Found New Viruses in Whales and Orcas Don't Miss: Jupiter at Its Biggest and Brightest Researchers Discover New Way To Wake Up Cancer-Killing T Cells Stay informed with ScienceDaily's free email newsletter, updated daily and weekly. Keep up to date with the latest news from ScienceDaily via social networks: Tell us what you think of ScienceDaily -- we welcome both positive and negative comments.