Today’s science allows for precise, accurate DNA tests that have the potential to reshape herd genetics.
DNA Products
DNA Fingerprint/DNA Profile – A genetic profile consisting of 100 to 200 SNPs, used to compare relationships between animals. While these profiles can be collected for reciprocity animals to compare offspring, they do not independently verify parentage.
Parent Verification – A process used to confirm the genetic relationship between an animal and its sire and dam. To complete parent verification, the animal, sire, and dam must each have an existing DNA profile. Typically, DNA profiling and parent verification are ordered together.
50K/100K Genotype – A detailed genetic analysis using 50,000 or 100,000 SNPs, offering a deeper comparison of animal relationships and genetic variation within the population. This advanced testing enhances the accuracy of Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs), allowing for more precise genetic evaluations.
Genotyping & Genomics
The American Brahman Breeders Association offers genomic testing beyond parent verification. Genotyping is highly recommended for any animal and may become a requirement for animals in an A.I./ET program within the next five years.
View Information on HD50K
View Information on GGP Bovine 100K
Genomic Enhanced EPDs (GE-EPDs) use genomic test results (genotypes), along with pedigree, performance, and progeny data, to enhance the accuracy and reliability of an animal’s EPDs. While accuracy can vary slightly between breeds and traits, a GE-EPD on an unproven bull provides roughly the same level of accuracy as if that bull had already sired his first calf crop. Only genotyped animals are eligible to receive GE-EPDs.
5-Year DNA Plan (2023–2028)
The ABBA Board of Directors has approved a comprehensive 5-year DNA/genomics plan to enhance our parent verification platform with SNP technology, offer genomic-enhanced EPDs for both commercial and seedstock breeders using Brahman genetics, and transition to Whole Herd Enrollment by January 1, 2028.
This transition will not only modernize our approach but also improve the accuracy and reliability of our EPD data.
Our goal is to support all ABBA members and Brahman breeders in achieving success. We encourage you to reach out with any questions or for guidance on the best plan for your operation. For more information, contact dna@brahman.org.
View the 5-Year DNA Plan Implementation
Read our DNA FAQs
Our parent verification services will remain in place throughout this transition, with all new samples processed using SNP analysis.
ABBA DNA Service Providers
ABBA members can utilize these two providers for DNA services.
Parent Verification
Starting DNA parent verification is a simple, two-step process:
Step 1
Order a test kit from the ABBA office by providing the registration numbers of the animals to be tested. The office will then send you the test kit and order form to submit to the lab in Step 2.
Step 2
Collect the DNA samples. You can choose from a blood sample, hair sample, or tissue sample.
For any questions or assistance with parent verification, please contact the ABBA office or email dna@brahman.org.