Syndactyly (mule foot)

Syndactyle (mule foot) Hereditary bovine syndactyle, also called "mule foot" or "mule-foot" (MF) is a recessive trait that affects cattle. The subjects with the malformation have one or more feet (the right front foot is always affected) with the two nails fused into a single finger, from which the name "mule foot" derives. All the bulls that have among their ancestors bearers of syndactylism (case of TUGOLO, MARATHON, FOND APOLLO, etc.), must be tested because, if bearers cannot be used for F.A. The abbreviation MF is applied to the tested subjects carrying the gene, the TM abbreviation to the tested subjects. The test is done via DNA. It is essential to have the DNA of both the young bull and the mother (the father is normally already deposited). The test can be performed only on subjects with known ancestry of first and second generation carriers. (Eg a young bull with Tugolo in third generation is not possible to perform the test). The samples taken must be accompanied by the transport document addressed to:

L.G.S. Laboratorio di Genetica e Servizi Società Cooperativa Sede: Via Bergamo, 292 - 26100 Cremona

The cost of the test is € 80.00 for diagnosis.

NB: The test for syndactylism is performed by genetic markers and not individually on the subject to be tested, therefore we advise interested parties to contact the Genetic Center: Dr. Emilio Olzi.