Assessing pig genetic diversity

Description

The preservation of genetic diversity is particularly important because human selection processes have resulted in a small number of commercial breeds and a large number of small, residual populations. This chapter looks at ways of analyzing pig genetic diversity. It then reviews what these techniques show about the current state of genetic diversity in traditional, local breeds. As the chapter suggests, optimal contribution selection (OCS), genomic selection (GS), and next-generation sequencing (NGS) techniques represent valid strategies for maintaining genetic diversity. In the future, strategies in swine epigenomics and microbiomics will play an important role, especially in improving animal resilience.

Table of contents

• 1 Introduction
• 2 Ways of analyzing pig genetic diversity
• 3 Trends in pig breeding and genetic diversity
• 4 Genetic diversity of local pig breeds
• 5 Dealing with inbreeding depression in local populations
• 6 Conclusion and future trends
• 7 Where to look for further information
• 8 References