Selection index. Multiple trait selection: single trait (ST) and multiple trait (MT) index. Aggregate breeding value. BLUP procedure in the computing breeding values: Sire model, MGS model, Animal model; genetic gain in sub-populations. Nucleus Selective scheme. The organization of selection in Italy. Selection in dairy and beef cattle, in swine and in sheep. Crossbreeding and inbreeding. Livestock biodiversity conservation and management of small populations
G. PAGNACCO: Genetica animale - applicazioni zootecniche e veterinarie Casa Editrice Ambrosiana. 2016
Other material and notes available at lesson.
Learning Objectives
Knowledge acquired:
Reproductive techniques and genetic improvement of livestock
Competence acquired (at the end of the course):
To carry out the reproduction in the herd and to manage the selective schemes in the various livestock breeds and the biodiversity conservation
Skills acquired (at the end of the course):
Professionalism in the management the selective schemes at the level of breeders associations
Prerequisites
Courses recommended: Principles of animal production
Teaching Methods
Total hours of the course (including the time spent in attending lectures, seminars, private study, examinations, etc...): 150
Hours reserved to private study and other individual formative activities: 96
Contact hours for: Lectures (hours): 36
Contact hours for: Laboratory (hours): 0
Contact hours for: Laboratory-field/practice (hours): 12-18
Seminars (hours): 0-6
Type of Assessment
Exam modality: oral
Course program
Calculation of heritability, repeatability, relationship and inbreeding. Genetic model and estimate of adjusted phenotype. Genetic index: estimation of breeding value and accuracy; Single trait (ST) and Multiple trait MT) index; multiple trait selection, aggregate index and relative economic emphasis. Direct and indirect selection. Genetic trend and base. BLUP, sire model, MGS model, Animal model. Genetic progress.
Organization of selection in Italy. Scheme, objectives, phenotype recording and organisation for selection in: beef (ANABIC and ANABoRaPi), dairy cattle, swine, sheep.
Crossbreeding and inbreeding. Application of crossbreeding scheme in pig production. Livestock biodiversity conservation and management of small populations
Practical: Exercises in lab; seminar with technician of the field; visit in farm and genetic centres.