Sheep breeders will have access to a faster, more accurate DNA test for parentage and poll/horn status from July, which also includes new features to detect a range of genetic defects.
First launched in 2012 by the Cooperative Research Centre for Sheep Industry Innovation (Sheep CRC), the DNA Parentage and Poll test has proven popular with sheep breeders seeking to improve their genetic selections through more precise pedigree information or by selecting rams known to be polled.
Until now the test has been delivered using a 180 SNP panel which, while providing reliable predictions of parentage and the horn-poll trait, had limitations when there were a number of closely-related rams in use in a breeding program.
Sheep CRC chief executive Professor James Rowe said the new test uses a more powerful 800 SNP panel and the latest analytical system based on the more stable Illumina technology.
“We have been working with our technology partners to respond to that feedback and from July 7 we will be offering a new parentage and poll test that is more accurate, more reliable and will result in a more predictable sample turnaround time for breeders,” Prof. Rowe said.
“The new DNA test panel includes all of the SNPs on the original test system and will therefore be completely compatible with all previous test results. It is also completely compatible with the 15k Sheep Genotyping SNP test.” The upgraded Parentage and Poll test will be available from July 7 for $21 per test (plus GST).
