What is DNA?

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is often described as the ‘blueprint’ of life. It contains the genetic information responsible for the development and function of an animal. DNA is heritable, meaning that each parent will pass it on to their progeny

DNA testing is a relatively new technology. There are multiple applications of this technology in beef breeding, including parentage verification, management of genetic conditions, management of qualitative traits and use in genetic evaluations including BREEDPLAN. Each of these will be explored in more detail throughout this module.

DNA testing is conducted by genotyping service providers. DNA test results can also be referred to as an animal’s genotype.