Genetic breakthrough helps farmers avoid costs of infertile cattle

There are up to 1,500 estimated cases each year in Ireland of chromosomal abnormalities, causing fertility issues, premature death, and other health problems

Animals with chromosomal abnormalities often appear normal externally, so their genetic condition typically goes unnoticed until they are either found dead or are eventually deemed infertile. File picture

Teagasc research has revealed how DNA information collected at birth can now be used to detect chromosomal abnormalities in livestock, helping to avoid the costs and challenges of rearing infertile cattle.

There are up to 1,500 estimated cases each year in Ireland of these chromosomal abnormalities, causing fertility issues, premature death in calves, and other health problems.