Callipyge
A genetic mutation in sheep can lead to increased muscle mass in the hindlimbs and loin of the animal, dubbed Callipyge. Due to a unique phenomenon known as “Polar overdominance”, an animal will show Callipyge characteristics if it has only a single copy of the Callipyge gene inherited from the Ram. If the animal inherits a copy of the Callipyge gene from both the Ram and Ewe, the Ewe’s copy will suppress the Ram’s copy, resulting in an offspring that has normal muscle mass in the hindlimbs and loin. An animal which inherits a copy of the Callipyge gene only from the Ewe will also have normal muscle mass in the hindlimbs & loin.
Accepted Sample Type(s)
Callipyge Testing Prices
| Test | Quantity | Test Price |
|---|---|---|
| Callipyge (CAL) | Any | $13.50 each test |
Callipyge Results
| Gene Check Results | Physical Characteristics |
|---|---|
| NN | Not a carrier of Callipyge gene, normally muscled hindlimbs & loin. |
| NC | Potentially Callipyge animal, with increased muscle mass in the hindlimbs & loin* |
| CC | Possesses two copies of Callipyge gene, but has normally muscled hindlimbs & loin* |
* The physical characteristics of Callipyge are only present in an animal that received a copy of the C gene from the Ram only. Animals that received a copy of the C gene from the Ram and Ewe (CC) are physically normal due to suppression of the Ram’s C gene by the Ewe’s dominant C gene. However, CC animals have a 50% chance to pass on a copy of the Ram’s C gene and can have offspring that display Callipyge characteristics.
Please note that Gene Check’s Callipyge test cannot determine which parent an animal received the C gene from.
(includes pricing and shipping information)
Results are reported rapidly and confidentially and are typically available 3-5 business days from receipt of samples. Sequential testing and large lots, particularly during the busy Spring season, may require somewhat longer turnaround times.
Rush processing (results available 2 business days from receipt of samples) is available for an additional fee.
Results will be emailed to the address provided on the testing submission form. Gene Check can provide individual certificates for animals upon request. Please note that we no longer send paper copies of results, except upon request!
ALL GENE CHECK RESULTS ARE CERTIFIED