General Testing FAQ¶
How accurate is avian DNA sexing?¶
SENO's avian DNA sexing achieves approximately 99% accuracy using validated PCR-based methods with internal quality controls and sample retesting. This high accuracy rate is maintained through:
| Quality Measure | Contribution to Accuracy |
|---|---|
| Validated CHD gene primers | Targets conserved region across bird species |
| Positive and negative controls per run | Detects assay failure or contamination |
| Internal amplification control per sample | Confirms DNA quality and absence of PCR inhibition |
| ~20% random retesting | Catches any rare technical errors |
| Second technician review | Independent verification of all results |
| External proficiency testing | Independent validation of laboratory performance |
Accuracy by Species Category¶
| Species Group | Number of Validated Species | Documented Accuracy |
|---|---|---|
| Psittacines (parrots) | 200+ | ~99.2% |
| Columbiformes (pigeons, doves) | 15+ | ~99.5% |
| Passerines (canaries, finches) | 30+ | ~98.5% |
| Galliformes (chickens, quail) | 10+ | ~99.0% |
| Anseriformes (ducks, geese) | 10+ | ~98.0% |
Note: Most reported discrepancies come from species with unusual CHD gene band patterns (e.g., certain parrot species where the CHD-Z and CHD-W bands are very similar in size). SENO validates each new species before offering sexing services and flags known challenging species in reports.
What is the difference between PCR and qPCR?¶
| Feature | Conventional PCR | qPCR (Real-Time PCR) |
|---|---|---|
| Detection method | End-point (after reaction) | Real-time (during reaction) |
| Readout | Gel electrophoresis (bands) | Fluorescence curves (Ct values) |
| Sensitivity | Moderate (detects ≥ 10² copies) | High (detects ≤ 10 copies) |
| Quantification | Semi-quantitative | Fully quantitative (with standard curve) |
| Turnaround time | 2-3 hours per run | 1-2 hours per run |
| Contamination risk | Higher (post-PCR handling) | Lower (closed-tube system) |
| Data richness | Binary (present/absent) | Kinetic (amplification curve) |
| Cost per sample | Lower | Slightly higher |
| SENO applications | DNA sexing, parentage, fingerprinting | Disease detection, pathogen quantification |
Which Test Method Does SENO Use for Each Service?¶
| Service | Primary Method | Alternative Method |
|---|---|---|
| DNA sexing (routine) | PCR + Gel Electrophoresis | Capillary Electrophoresis (higher throughput) |
| DNA sexing (high volume) | Capillary Electrophoresis | PCR + Gel Electrophoresis |
| PBFD detection | qPCR (TaqMan probe) | Conventional PCR (confirmation) |
| Avian Polyomavirus | qPCR | Nested PCR (low viral load) |
| Avian Influenza | qPCR | RT-PCR (subtype identification) |
| Pigeon DNA fingerprinting | Multiplex PCR + Capillary Electrophoresis | — |
| Parentage verification | STR panel + Capillary Electrophoresis | — |
| Performance gene testing | Allele-specific PCR | Sequencing (confirmation) |
Can you test all bird species?¶
We test a wide range of psittacines (parrots), columbiformes (pigeons/doves), passerines (canaries/finches), and other species. Contact us if unsure about your specific species.
Species Previously Validated at SENO¶
| Order | Example Species | DNA Sexing | Disease Testing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psittaciformes | African Grey, Macaws, Cockatoos, Conures, Budgerigars, Lovebirds | ✅ | ✅ |
| Columbiformes | Racing pigeons, Fancy pigeons, Doves | ✅ | ✅ |
| Passeriformes | Canaries, Finches, Zebra Finches, Sparrows | ✅ | ✅ (limited) |
| Galliformes | Chickens, Quail, Peafowl, Turkeys | ✅ | ✅ (limited) |
| Anseriformes | Ducks, Geese, Swans | ✅ | ✅ (limited) |
| Accipitriformes | Hawks, Eagles (CITES restrict) | ✅ (permit) | ❌ |
| Strigiformes | Owls (CITES restrict) | ✅ (permit) | ❌ |
| Falconiformes | Falcons (CITES restrict) | ✅ (permit) | ❌ |
Species validation process: When SENO receives a species that has not been previously tested, the laboratory performs a validation run using known-sex reference samples (if available) and publishes the result for future reference.
Do you provide English reports?¶
Yes. All test reports and customer communication are provided in English for international clients. Reports include:
| Report Section | Content |
|---|---|
| Client information | Name, contact details, species, sample ID |
| Sample information | Sample type, collection date, receipt date |
| Test method | PCR, qPCR, or other method used |
| Test results | Gender assignment (DNA sexing) or positive/negative (disease testing) |
| Controls | All control results listed |
| Interpretive notes | Additional comments where applicable |
| Report date and technician signature | Date issued, reviewing technician name |
| Certification statement | ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 13485:2016 certified |
Reports are issued in PDF format and can be shared electronically or printed for records.
How long does testing take?¶
Most tests are completed within 1–2 working days after sample arrival at the laboratory.
What is the total turnaround time including shipping?¶
Total turnaround (from shipment to receiving results) is approximately 7–10 business days, depending on shipping and customs processing. The breakdown is:
| Phase | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| International shipping | 3–5 business days | DHL, FedEx, or UPS |
| Customs clearance | 1–3 business days | Varies by country of origin |
| Sample registration and processing | 0.5 business day | Upon arrival |
| DNA extraction | 0.5 business day | Standard protocol |
| PCR/qPCR analysis | 0.5–1 business day | Dependent on test type |
| Result interpretation and review | 0.5 business day | Second technician review |
| Report generation and delivery | 0.5 business day | PDF via email |
| Total (estimated) | 7–10 business days | From shipment to results |
Rush service: Contact SENO to inquire about expedited processing for urgent cases.
Do you offer bulk testing discounts?¶
Yes. Bulk testing for breeders, clubs, veterinary clinics, and distributors reduces per-sample costs significantly.
Sample Bulk Pricing Structure (2026)¶
| Volume (samples/month) | Typical Discount Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 10-50 | 5-10% | Small breeders |
| 51-200 | 10-20% | Medium breeders, clubs |
| 201-500 | 15-25% | Large breeders, veterinary clinics |
| 500+ | 20-35% | Distributors, large cooperatives |
| 1000+ | Custom pricing | Wholesale distribution partners |
Note: Exact pricing depends on test type, species mix, and shipping logistics. Contact SENO for a personalized quotation.
Do you offer distributor partnerships?¶
Yes. We work with international distributors and agents. Options include reseller partnerships, local sample collection support, and long-term collaboration.
Distributor Partnership Options¶
| Partnership Type | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Reseller | Purchases tests at wholesale price, resells to end clients | Established businesses in target markets |
| Agent/Representative | Referrals to SENO, commission-based | Individuals with industry connections |
| Sample Collection Hub | Local sample collection, bulk shipment to SENO | Veterinary clinics, pet stores |
| Strategic Partner | Co-branded services, joint marketing | Large organizations, associations |
Distributor Benefits¶
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Wholesale pricing | 20-35% below retail (volume-dependent) |
| Marketing support | Co-branded materials, online presence |
| Technical training | Webinars and documentation in local language |
| Priority processing | Faster turnaround for partner samples |
| Dedicated support | Direct contact for all inquiries |
| Exclusive territory | Negotiable for committed partners |
Can I request a specific test not listed on your website?¶
SENO periodically develops new tests based on client demand. If you require a test for a specific pathogen or genetic marker not currently listed, contact us with details:
- Organism / gene of interest
- Expected sample type
- Estimated sample volume
- Timeline required
SENO R&D will assess feasibility and provide a timeline and quotation for test development.
Related Documents¶
- Sample FAQ — Sample types, collection guidance, quality requirements
- Shipping FAQ — International shipping procedures, customs, timing
- B2B Procurement FAQ — Pricing, MOQ, payment terms, partnerships
- Accuracy Validation — Method validation and accuracy data
- PCR Sexing Method — Technical basis for CHD-based sexing