Individual Testing for Genetic Indexing

Testing for Genetic Gain

Natural resistance to worm burdens is a highly heritable trait particularly in sheep and goats.

We test for many studs and sire evaluation groups who use our results to identify and rank their animals.

Our results are supplied in excel format that can easily be loaded into most indexing and classing programs.

A pdf copy is also included to ensure there is a master copy.

Lab Requirements

Please send in a Check Test for the mob a week or two prior to proposed individual sampling. Your check test average should be a minimum of 450 epg.

This is to ensure the minimum average egg count of 300 epg will be met and a lot of extra work is not wasted.

It can be disappointing when results don’t supply enough range offering limited use of results and possible rejection by sheep genetics.

Please contact us to book in your intended testing.

Notice a month or so ahead allows for planning.  These jobs are hugely time consuming and we need to know when they are coming in to ensure all can be done in a timely manner and we are resourced to accommodate each job.

For Pricing download our Test Request Form or click here

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Sample Collection for Genetic Testing

After many years and different sample submission types we have found the following the best option. Please follow these instructions closely.
Please note: if using barcodes we do not accept thermal shopping docket style barcodes, as these are not reliable enough with the risk of moisture damage. Stick on barcodes are ideal – make sure tags are printing clearly.

Equipment:

  • Ziplock Sandwich Bags, the full sized ones, readily available for purchase from the supermarket in boxes of 100 or more.

Make sure you have enough prior to starting the job.

  • Barcode equipment with stick-on labels or several Sharpie textas. We prefer ID’s to be located on the top right corner of the bag, just below the ziplock seal. Written numbers must be clear to read, in the same spot and orientation on the bag, so there is no confusion whether a number is 6 or 9.

Take individual samples from rectum of animal. Aim for a minimum of 3 grams for each animal – Approximately 5 pellets per adult or 8 pellets for lambs. There are always some animals that this may not be possible, but make sure the majority are the required sample size.

Place sample in bag and ensure tag number is clearly stuck on or marked towards the top right side of the bag (above the sample). Ideally this is an operation for at least two but preferably more people one sampling the other clearly writing or sticking the tag numbers on the bags!

If operators change during the job please ensure the same system is explained so the tag numbers are written or placed in the same place.
Keep the outside of the bags dry. Place into mailing box and seal well. Post the same day as collection if you can make that days mail.

Getting them to us!

Place into mailing box and seal well. Post the same day as collection if you can make that days mail.
Express Post (at your expense) to

StockWatch

PO Box 423

Temora NSW 2666

Ensure you receive a tracking number. Please send us a message that they have been sent.

Samples can also be delivered directly to us, drive them over and we’ll arrange a drop off point. This is certainly the fastest way and ensures samples don’t get delayed in the postal system.

Let’s Get Started

Let’s get the ball rolling on your Worm Tests.