Technical Note: A Comparison of DNA Collection Methods in Cattle and Yaks

This study compared DNA collection methods in cattle and yaks, focusing on whole blood sampling, nasal swabs, and hair follicles. DNA was collected from 166 Black Angus bulls and 24 yaks. Results showed that nasal swabs provided a greater quantity and quality of DNA than blood samples, with similar performance in SNP genotyping assays. Although nasal swabs were more expensive, they were easier to use and store. In yaks, blood collection was challenging, while nasal swabbing and hair follicle sampling were easier. However, yak hair follicles were a poor DNA source. Overall, nasal swabs were the most effective method for DNA collection in both species.