A 14/20 chromosome translocationp in Simmental cattle

A 14/20 translocation was identified in 2 herds of Simmental cattle in the United States. All of the animals that carried the translocation had a common sire that was identified subsequently to carry the translocation. The semen of the bull had been used to inseminate a vast number of cows, so a substantial number of Simmental cattle in the United States may carry the 14/20 translocation. This translocation could have a detrimental effect on fertility in carrier animals; however, there are insufficient data about this particular abnormality to form conclusions. There appears to be sufficient evidence to urge caution in selecting carriers for breeding stock, especially when the potential exists for widespread dissemination of the abnormality through the use of artificial insemination.