Limits to genotypic probabilities for single loci

Abstract

Methods for determining genotype probabilities were originally developed for use with single bi-allelic loci in small populations where one allele is at low frequency. Now they are being applied to larger populations with multi-allelic loci. Using livestock populations, this paper examines the proportions of individuals whose genotype cannot be inferred with certainty when the genotypes of its parents, progeny and mates are known. It is concluded that when allele frequencies are moderate the genotypes of most individuals cannot be inferred with certainty.