Recently the conversation on embryo transfer (ET) animals in suspense has been brought up several times as, and the members are not sure why. In previous ‘Membership Tips’ articles, the changes to Rule 104 d.2. have been available, but I felt it was time to revisit this rule in the Breeder’s Reference Guide as we move forward into the 2026 calving season and spring sale season.

Most members are familiar with the rules regarding artificial insemination (AI) sires having parentage markers on file and the complete genomic condition bundle for the genetic conditions monitored by the American Angus Association.

Rule 504: DNA-Marker-Typing 
A record of the DNA-marker type, or blood type if identified before January 1, 2001, of all bulls that are the source of semen for the purpose of Artificial Insemination must be filed with the Association before calves that are sired artificially by such bulls shall be eligible for registration or before “Out of Herd” AI Service Certificates may be obtained from the Association. The full suite of known commercially available tests for the genetic conditions monitored by the American Angus Association will be required for all bulls, born on or after January 1, 2018, that are the source of semen for the purpose of Artificial Insemination.

The same requirements now apply to embryo transfer (ET) donor dams. Registration Rule 104.d.2. was updated to include the genetic condition bundle test for all donor dams born on or after Jan. 1, 2023.

June 8, 2023, the Board of Directors approved changes to rule 104 d.2. 

 d. Calves produced by embryo transplant. For calves resulting from an embryo transplant:

2. The Embryo Transfer Donor Dam must be DNA-marker- typed or must have been blood-typed before January 1, 2001. The full suite of known commercially available tests for the genetic conditions monitored by the American Angus Association will be required for all donor dams, born on or after January 1, 2023, used for the purpose of Embryo Transfer. (As amended June 8, 2023.)  Additional language was added on June 4 of 2024 to read:  In the event DNA is unavailable from the donor dam for genetic condition testing, the full suite of known commercially available tests for the genetic conditions monitored by the American Angus Association will be required for all offspring applying for registration.

The Genetic Condition Bundle includes tests for all monitored genetic conditions including arthrogryposis multiplex (AM), neuropathic hydrocephalus (NH), contractural arachnodactyly (CA), osteopetrosis (OS), developmental duplication (DD), myostatin (M1), PRKG2 gene mutation for dwarfism (D2) and oculocutaneous hypopigmentation (OH). The test for coat color is also included. 

As the Breeder’s Reference Guide changes from time to time, it is important to continually monitor the contents when you have questions regarding your operation. The rules could affect your registrations, sale cattle and possibly show deadlines. As always if you have questions, please contact the Member Services department.

Editor’s note: For more information, please contact the Association Member Services Department at 816-383-5100 or email llanders@angus.org.