SA Stud Book and Animal Improvement Association has achieved a major milestone by becoming the first institution in Africa – and one of only 14 worldwide – to be certified as a DNA Data Interpretation Centre for Parentage Discovery by the International Committee for Animal Recording (ICAR).
By Johan Norval, Senior Journalist at African Farming and Landbouweekblad
CEO Dr Bobbie van der Westhuizen says the designation cements SA Stud Book’s status as a centre of technical excellence in animal recording. He views the recognition as both an honour and a responsibility.
“ICAR has confirmed our expertise in applying high-density single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping. This advanced technology can analyse between 15 000 and 25 000 genetic markers, enabling a level of precision in parentage determination that was not possible with older methods.”
SNP technology is an internationally recognised tool for resolving complex parentage issues, safeguarding the genetic integrity of herd data, and enabling South African breeders to compete on a genetic level globally.
“This technology allows SA Stud Book to resolve complex pedigree discrepancies with exceptional accuracy. It is particularly valuable for managing herds with closely related sires.”
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