Application of Parentage Testing by DNA on Western Ranges with Large Beef Herds

View the project final report

Commodities

• Animals: bovine

Practices

• Animal Production: general animal production
• Education and Training: demonstration, extension, on-farm/ranch research
• Production Systems: holistic management

Extensive ranching operations in the West are unable to identify the sires and the dams of calves, precluding selection or culling of animals based on performance or undesirable traits. DNA technology for parent testing in cattle is viable, but has not been applied to large herds. This research developed satisfactory field sampling techniques for DNA testing in large herds. Time problems emerged with lab procedures in processing large sample numbers, taking too long for the information to be used in culling animals effectively. The techniques show promise, but more rapid methods for large sample number need to be developed.

Develop sampling techniques, data storage, and data application techniques for determining the parentage of calves, particularly in large herds.
Develop methods for selection on the basis of parentage and performance parameters within the cow herd.
Develop curricular materials for producers such that these techniques may be successfully applied.

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