Genome-wide associations and detection of candidate genes for direct and maternal genetic effects influencing growth traits in the Montana Tropical® Composite population

•The Montana Tropical® Composite population have been used as a genetic resource to beef producers and have a complex genetic constitution.•Growth traits have greater economic importance to Montana Tropical® Composite breed and account higher percentage in selection index weights.•Better understand the nature of the genes and metabolic pathways affecting genetic effects related with important traits could optimize the selection process in this population.