Holstein Plaza

USDA researchers have recently discovered three haplotypes impacting fertility in the Holstein breed. A haplotype is a combination of alleles (DNA sequences) at different locations on a chromosome that are transmitted together as a group (linked). Referred to as HH1, HH2 and HH3, these haplotypes are believed to cause embryonic or fetal death when present in homozygous form, i.e., the offspring inherits the haplotype from both the sire and dam. In a herd, this would appear as if a cow did not conceive, resulting in greater days open and lower conception rates.

A complete list of all animals that are known carriers or tested non-carriers of these haplotypes impacting fertility, at this time, can be found by clicking here!