August 18, 2006

Scientists complete DNA sequence for bovine animals

Scientists have finished a five-year project to build a genetic map of bovine animals, which is expected to lead to better cattle production, breeding and disease control.

The success of the US$70 million project marked the culmination of a joint effort between Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the United States.

Dr Chris Prideaux from the Commonwealth Scientific and Research Organisation (CSIRO) says it is now time to put the science to use.

With the map, the roll-out of genetic markers, such as traits for meat tenderness or marbling, would be accelerated, he said.

The map would get additional markers onto the market faster and producers can start breeding cattle with enhanced traits in a much shorter time frame, Prideaux added.