Genetic Improvement in Livestock

Hostile Type Breeding

• Avoid hybrid vagal processes known as heterosystem.

• Producers use genetic selection and mating systems for improvement.

Genetic Selection

• Focus on selecting high EPD (Expected Progeny Difference) animals.

• Pair high EPD animals for higher quality offspring.

Mating Systems

• Defined by genetic relationship between male and female.

• Assessment crucial to avoid inbreeding.

Inbreeding

• Inbreeding refers to breeding closely related males and females.

• Can lead to inbreeding depression which reduces performance.

• Intensive inbreeding is highly discouraged due to risks.

Record Keeping

• Essential for tracking genetic relationships and preventing mistakes in breeding.

• Poor records lead to accidental inbreeding and decreased performance.

Outbreeding

• Contrast to inbreeding; involves breeding unrelated animals.

• Types of outbreeding: includes species crossing, though limited due to chromosomal differences.

• Example of species cross: mule (horse × donkey).