185 research outputs found
Mapping genomic regions and genes associated with the fat-tail, an adaptation trait in indigenous sheep
Poster prepared for a share fair, Addis Ababa, May 201
Suitability of blood protein polymorphisms in assessing genetic diversity and relationships in population genetic studies
No evidence for a recent genetic bottleneck in the endangered Sheko cattle breed (African Bos taurus) revealed by microsatellite analysis
Sheko is African taurine cattle, valued for its milk yield, adaptation to humid tsetse infested environment and trypanotolerance. We used 30 microsatellite markers in analyzing 30 DNA samples. We found high genetic diversity and no genetic bottlenecks in endangered Sheko cattle. Sheko cattle have not undergone recent genetic bottlenecks, in spite of drastic reduction in its overall demographic population size. The results were supported by three statistical methods: 
(i) detection of heterozygosity excess 
(ii) a mode-shift indicator of allele distribution pattern 
(iii) the ratio of the number of alleles to the range of allele size, M-ratio test. This breed reflects historical and cultural identity of local communities and represents a unique component of the global domestic animal biodiversity that deserve priority for conservation
Insights into the genetic diversity and structure of indigenous ovi-caprine populations in Ethiopia
Invited review: Genomic selection for small ruminants in developed countries: how applicable for the rest of the world?
Improved management and use of estimated breeding values in breeding programmes, have resulted in rapid genetic progress for small ruminants (SR) in Europe and other developed countries. The development of single nucleotide polymorphisms chips opened opportunities for genomic selection (GS) in SR in these countries. Initially focused on production traits (growth and milk), GS has been extended to functional traits (reproductive performance, disease resistance and meat quality). The GS systems have been characterized by smaller reference populations compared with those of dairy cattle and consisting mostly of cross- or multi-breed populations. Molecular information has resulted in gains in accuracy of between 0.05 and 0.27 and proved useful in parentage verification and the identification of QTLs for economically important traits. Except for a few established breeds with some degree of infrastructure, the basic building blocks to support conventional breeding programmes in small holder systems are lacking in most developing countries. In these systems, molecular data could offer quick wins in undertaking parentage verification and genetic evaluations using G matrix, and determination of breed composition. The development of next-generation molecular tools has prompted investigations on genome-wide signatures of selection for mainly adaptive and reproduction traits in SR in developing countries. Here, the relevance of the developments and application of GS and other molecular tools in developed countries to developing countries context is examined. Worth noting is that in the latter, the application of GS in SR will not be a ‘one-size fits all’ scenario. For breeds with some degree of conventional genetic improvement, classical GS may be feasible. In small holder systems, where production is key, community-based breeding programmes can provide the framework to implement GS. However, in fragile growth systems, for example those found in marginal environments, innovative GS to maximize adaptive diversity will be required. A cost-benefit analysis should accompany any strategy of implementing GS in these systems
Zebu cattle of Kenya: Uses, performance, farmer preferences, measures of genetic diversity and options for improved use
Community-based breeding programs (CBBPs) are being upscaled in Ethiopia and other African countries
Genomic selection and use of molecular tools in breeding programs for indigenous and crossbred cattle in developing countries: current status and future prospects
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