A NEW TYPE OF RECESSIVE ACHONDROPLASIA IN CATTLE

Abstract

Inbreeding in Jersey cattle brought to light a sublethal type of achondroplasia that is rather variable in phenotypic expression. The greatest modification appears in the development of the bones of the skull and jaws. Defective calves may be identified by a short, broad head and a prominent forehead. Cleft palate may be observed in the more severe cases. The gene has little, if any, effect upon leg length. One female exhibiting a mild form of achondroplasia lived to 14 months of age until she was slaughtered. This defect is inherited as a monofactorial autosomal recessive. It appears to differ from the Telemark type of recessive achondroplasia.