Abstract: A novel sequence of the pig myogenin gene and methods of using the myogenin gene and its products. Also disclosed are methods for detecting different alleles of the pig myogenin gene, which different alleles are associated with differences in the genotypic and/or phenotypic traits of the pigs having those alleles. Methods for distinguishing between alleles resulting in different phenotypes, particularly using techniques involving selective amplification of pig myogenin gene derived materials are also disclosed. These techniques are especially suitable for selecting animals to be used in breeding programs. Breeding programs employing such techniques are also disclosed.