GenomNZ is a commercial unit of AgResearch NZ which offers a range of genetic
testing services to livestock farmers in NZ. Farmers receive instructions on how to
extract DNA samples from the sheep, cattle or deer involved in their breeding
programmes. The samples are posted to GenomNZ’s laboratory where experts carry
out DNA Profiling to assist farmers in managing breeding programmes.
Cattle Services
Genomnz™ provides a fast and efficient service for DNA parentage testing for cattle. DNA
testing will increase accuracy in your herd records allowing you to maximise genetic gain and
reduce manual recording costs. With the increased accuracy in your records you will be able to
make better breeding and management decisions, keeping the best animals to increase the value
of your herd.
Genomnz™ also offers a number of single gene tests for production traits and genetic defects.
These tests allow you to make selection decisions to eliminate genetic diseases from your herd and
increase profitability by selecting for animals with favourable production traits.
The standard method for collecting cattle samples is by easiTrace™ samplers or by taking a hair
sample. We also accept semen, blood, and tissue samples. See our sample types page for more
information and sampling instructions.
Markers recommended by the International Society for Animal Genetics (ISAG) and used as the
standard worldwide have been incorporated into the cattle DNA profile used by
The services offered by
Genom nz™
Genom nz™ for dairy cattle include:
DNA Profile
A DNA profile is the basis for all DNA parentage analysis. An animal can be genotyped and the
DNA profile stored on the
Genomnz™ database for future reference. This is useful for sires and
dams, and for registration with Breed Societies. A DNA Profile Certificate using International
Society for Animal Genetics (ISAG) adjusted markers is available for dairy cattle.
Pedigree Verification
Confirms the breeder’s own pedigree records
There is always potential for errors to occur when recording your own pedigrees and DNA testing
can detect these. It is particularly important to confirm that the pedigree is correct when using
elite animals for ET or AI programmes and when selling or registering an animal.
Sire/Dam Match
Confirms a sire or dam is matched to an offspring
While not as powerful as a full pedigree test, this service can be very useful for breeders who
multiple sire mate in order to determine the most active sires and those sires producing the best
progeny. This service is also useful in cases of mis-mothering.
DNA Match
Matches up sires and dams to offspring using only mating and calving mob records
DNA-Match significantly reduces the intensive management otherwise required during mating and
calving. A sample of the progeny is tested against a number of different parent combinations. To
keep the cost down and increase accuracy, using mating and calving records is recommended.
Identity Test
An identity test is used to identify that a DNA sample belongs to a particular animal. The
applications for this service include identifying animals that have lost their tag, insurance of
valuable animals, forensic testing, product tracing, and resolving identity disputes.
Single Gene Tests
The single gene tests offered by
Genomnz™ for production traits and genetic defects include:
Beta-casein A2*
Beta-casein is a naturally produced protein in cows’ milk which comes in two variants, A1 and
A2.
*
Genomnz™can detect whether an animal carries the A2 beta-casein variant.
Genomnz™ does not endorse any claims related to A2 milk.
Bovine Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency (BLAD)
BLAD is a genetic defect affecting white blood cell function which causes extreme susceptibility to
infection.Genom
nz™ can test for the mutation in the CD18 gene that causes leukocyte
adhesion deficiency in Holstein cattle.
Complex Vertebral Malformation (CVM)
CVM is a genetic defect that causes aborted foetuses and stillborn calves.
Genom nz™ can
identify bovine carriers of CVM by testing for a specific mutation in the SLC35A3 gene.
Please see our sample submission page for information about submitting dairy cattle samples for
any of the above services or download our submission form.