Genomic Heterozygosity

Genomically measured heterozygosity describes the percentage of an animal's gene loci at which two different alleles are present. The method of choice is determination using SNP arrays, which precisely analyse thousands of markers in the genome. The value thus shows the actual genetic diversity of the individual examined. High heterozygosity indicates a broad genetic base, which is often associated with good adaptability (genetic fitness) and robust health. Low heterozygosity, on the other hand, can indicate inbreeding or close kinship in the ancestral line and carries an increased risk of hereditary diseases.

Please note: Markers that are examined to determine genetic identity or as part of the diagnosis of hereditary diseases have a different distribution of allele frequencies. Determining HE values based on these marker findings does not provide accurate information about the diversity of the entire genome.