Genetic management of cattle Researchers have developed an advanced cattle management system that uses the cattle's genes to identify desirable traits and to select the most suitable breeding stock. Food and Natural Resources Health © Sponner, Thinkstock When selecting cattle for dairy and meat farms, breeders traditionally look for desirable traits like milk yield or productivity. With the latest gene technology, scientists can identify which genes are responsible for which traits, and track how they are inherited by successive generations. The EU-funded GENE2FARM (Next generation European system for cattle improvement and management) initiative used cows' genetic information to improve the cattle industry's breeding programmes. GENE2FARM sequenced the genomes of different breeds of dairy, beef and dual-purpose European cattle populations. They then determined the genetic diversity of different breeds, and estimated how related breeding populations are. Understanding diversity in cattle populations will help breeders to select the best parentage for their breeding programmes. To help farmers and breeders manage their genetic resources, GENE2FARM developed statistical tests to balance economically important traits with biodiversity considerations. This is particularly important for preventing or minimising inbreeding among small herds. Researchers also developed genetic markers to identify genes responsible for traits that are not easily discernible, such as behaviour, long-term health and resistance to diseases. To help breeders and researchers use the vast amount of genetic data generated by the project, GENE2FARM developed a database combining different sources of information. This database was linked to several user-friendly web-based tools designed to store, convert, standardise and analyse genomic data. These computer programmes will allow breeders to develop tailored management programmes guided by genetics rather than simply physical traits. Having shown that their software and evaluation tools work in dairy, dual-purpose and beef breeding programmes, GENE2FARM intends to adapt them to other farmed animals. This should revolutionise the way farms are managed, making them more profitable and sustainable. Keywords Cattle, dairy, GENE2FARM, genetic information, breeding programmes, beef
