Hereford Cattle DNA Testing
Improve the productivity, profitability and sustainability of your Hereford herd through genotyping. Our team is ready to help you boost your herd’s performance with DNA testing.
Understanding Hereford Cattle Genetics
Hereford cattle are known for their strong muscular build, red-and-white colouring and environmental resilience. They grow quickly and are primarily farmed for the well-marbled, high-quality meat they produce.
DNA analysis looks beyond visible traits to uncover the underlying genetic profile of your Hereford herd. At XytoVet, our genotyping services equip you with valuable genetic insights that you can use to improve herd productivity through better-informed breeding decisions.
As Australia’s only locally-owned livestock genotyping service provider, we’re embedded in the Australian agricultural industry and passionate about working with Australian farmers. Partner with us to enhance the genetic strength of your Hereford herd and secure a strong future for your farm.
Hereford Cattle Genetic Testing Services
Genotyping
At XytoVet, we use a custom Affymetrix Bovine Genotyping Array. This array is an innovative tool that enables parent verification and trait selection of Hereford cattle based on crucial genetic characteristics such as horn/poll status, coat pigmentation and genetic conditions.
Parentage Testing
Determining the true parentage of cattle progeny gives you the confidence that you have full oversight over your Hereford herd’s genetic lineage and can make informed decisions about its future. We use multiple genetic markers to confirm the true parentage of your Hereford offspring, both dam and sire.
Get In Touch
Discover how DNA analysis can drive productivity, profitability and sustainability for your Hereford production operations. Get in touch with Jason Ledger, our beef genetics expert, to learn more about the genetic profile of your herd so you can make informed, strategic decisions going far into the future.
The Benefits of Genetic Testing for Limousins
- Improved Breeding Decisions
- Increased Productivity
- Better Profitiability
- Genetic Condition Status
- Efficient Resource Utilisation
- Long-Term Sustainability
- Data-Driven Decision-Making
Frequently Asked Questions
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Why should I use DNA testing for my Hereford herd?
DNA testing is the only tool for precise parent verification and helps predict an animal’s lifetime performance. By understanding each animal’s genetic potential early, Hereford producers can make informed decisions, leading to better production outcomes across the herd.
XytoVet provides a comprehensive 50K genomic test for Hereford cattle, fully verified by Breedplan and IGS. This test assesses over 40 traits and indices—including growth, ribeye, carcass weight, marbling, and backfat—helping to improve genetic gain and herd productivity. XytoVet also customises testing to prioritise traits relevant to your business goals.
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What kinds of genetic conditions are tested for in Hereford cattle?
- Hypotrichosis {HY}
- Idiopathic Epilepsy {IE}
- Mandibulofacial Dysostosis {MD}
- Maple Syrup Urine Disease {MSUD}
- Dilutor (DL)
- BVDV (Pesti)
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How do I get started with DNA testing?
For DNA analysis, XytoVet recommends using a tissue sample, taken with a small tissue punch from the animal’s ear. You will need an applicator and a tissue sampling unit (TSU), which can be sourced from our recommended supplier. For further details, watch our instructional video or contact our Genetic Sales Consultants for assistance – we’re always happy to help.
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Can I use my current breed society?
Despite being a major contributor of genotypes to Sheep Genetics and DataGene, many Australian cattle societies do not currently allow the only Australian-owned and operated livestock DNA service provider to supply genotypes. You can change this by asking Herefords Australia to accept XytoVet data, which is compatible with, and already validated by Helical, IGS and AGBU.
