Osteopetrosis (OS)

Oesteopetrosis (OS) is a lethal genetic condition more commonly known as ‘Marble bone’ disease.

The condition causes calves to be born dead or die shortly after, typically 10 to 30 days premature. Visually the calves appear small, with a shortened lower jaw and impacted molars. Despite the bones of affected calves being solid and lacking normal bone marrow cavity, they are brittle and easily shattered.

OS is controlled by a simple recessive mutation.

Further reading 

Angus Australia acknowledges the funds provided by the Australian Government through the Meat & Livestock Australia Donor Company (MDC).  

This resource was created as a result of a collaboration between Angus Australia and Meat & Livestock Australia Donor Company (MDC) (Project P.PSH.1063).