Australian White sheep are on the project’s breed list.

MEAT and Livestock Australia is seeking the cooperation of sheep breeders of several breeds to collect reference data for genotyping.

Several sheep breeds have been identified as having insufficient reference populations in Australia.

The Foundation breeds reference genotyping project aims to increase the number of genotypes for the breeds to increase their reference size.

The breeds include Polwarth, Romney, Finn sheep, Aussie White, Cheviot, English Leicester, Perendale, East Friesian, Prime SAMM, Damara, Lincoln, Van Rooy, Rambouillet, Wiltshire Horn and UltraWhite.

Foundation breeds of popular composites will be the main targets for sample collection.

The MLA Resource Flock collects reference data (genotypes and phenotypes) for use in genomic testing, as well as providing a resource for additional R & D projects. Data collected is used to generate Australian Sheep Breeding Values (ASBVs) and other genetics and genomic tools for delivery to sheep breeders.

Samples will be genotyped with the GGP 50K or equivalent. Genotypes will be stored in the central database and used to progress the aims of the Resource Flock including increasing the reference population, improved imputation and establishing a reference for breed composition. Genotypes will be available to the breeder for parentage testing.

Key steps

• Nominations are now open. Nominate here
• Animals will be selected on diversity and available pedigree information.
• Breeders will be advised of successful nomination by July 30, 2022.
• Breeders will be provided with Tissue Sample Units (TSUs), applicators, TSU collection information and return postage. MLA to pay for TSUs, applicators, postage and genotyping. Breeders to pay for cost of collection including labour.
• Breeders to collect TSUs and return with supplied excel form identifying animals by September 30, 2022.

For further information please contact Sheep Genetics +61 (2) 8055 1818 or email: [email protected]

Source: MLA