Cloudbreak Lowlines is now home to some registered RED Australian Lowlines. We were very lucky to source some amazing varied genetics from Roulette Lowlines, including red cow 'Gifted and Red', and red heifer 'Red Delight', together with a number of red-gene-carrier cows and heifers.
The informationon red genetics below is from the Australian Lowline Cattle Association (ALCA)
Why red and black?
These are the two most common colours in cattle breeds and both have always existed in the Angus herd genetics. Historically it is not certain how the gene came to be in the Lowline herd but it is present in registered animals today that have been Parent Verified and DNA tested.
Why are there only a few red lowlines?
Unless you have both black parents that carry the red gene you will never produce a red calf. The genes for red are still reasonably rare although they are present in the registered Lowline herd. Even if both parents are carrying the red gene there is still only one chance in four of a red calf. This does not mean that every four calves they have, one will be red. There is a one in four chance each time. Like picking out a single heart in a pack of cards each time you pick one card. And if one parent has the gene and the other does not you will never have a red calf, ever.
Which animals have the gene and how can you tell?
You cannot pick a red gene carrier by looking at it. They are all black – which is the dominant colour. The only real way to tell is by DNA testing.
Are there any differences between red and black animals?
No. In all other aspects they are the same, except for the colour of their coat. If they are
DNA tested and Parent Verified they are the same as any other Lowline.
