New Genetic Test More Accurate for Poll Selection in Brahmans

Why It Matters

Accurate identification of the Guarani poll allele lets Brahman producers make more reliable breeding decisions, reducing reliance on visual assessment and improving herd genetics.

Key Takeaways

• Guarani Poll test detects Bos Indicus poll variant absent in Celtic tests
• Launch timed with Australian Brahman Breeders Association conference, May availability
• Offered as genomic add‑on or standalone assay for flexible testing
• Does not distinguish homozygous vs heterozygous, only presence/absence
• Supports precise breeding in Brahman and indicus‑derived herds

Pulse Analysis

The quest for hornless cattle—known as polledness—has long driven genetic research across beef breeds. In Bos taurus, the Celtic (Pc) mutation became the standard marker, allowing producers to select for naturally hornless animals and avoid dehorning costs and animal welfare concerns. However, Bos indicus breeds such as the Australian Brahman carry distinct poll alleles that the Celtic test cannot detect, leaving breeders with limited genomic insight. This gap has prompted academic and commercial partners to hunt for indicus‑specific markers that can be integrated into modern breeding programs.

The newly released Guarani Poll assay fills that void. Developed from University of Queensland sequencing data and commercialized by Neogen under a UniQuest license, the test identifies the Guarani (Pg) poll variant prevalent in Brahman herds. It reports a simple positive or negative result, indicating whether the allele is present, without resolving zygosity. Available from early May, the assay can be added to routine genomic panels or ordered as a standalone test, giving producers flexibility to screen new calves or re‑evaluate animals previously tested only for Celtic polledness.

From a business perspective, the Guarani Poll test equips Brahman breeders with actionable data that can streamline selection, reduce reliance on visual phenotyping, and improve herd uniformity. Accurate poll status also supports market demands for animal‑friendly practices, potentially enhancing premium pricing for dehorned or naturally polled beef. As more indicus‑derived breeds adopt the assay, the industry may see a broader shift toward genotype‑driven herd management, encouraging further investment in breed‑specific genetic tools and accelerating genetic gain across the global beef sector.