Genetic Improvement of Indigenous Sheep And Goats

The breeding of small ruminants has a huge social and environmental impact globally. Due to rising production costs concerning milk prices and customer desire for harmless and superior quality food, efficient features have become crucial for effective breeding programs. Most farmers are unaware of the strategic value of genetic improvement and lack the incentive to support breeding projects on their own, so government money has been the primary funding source for breeding initiatives. Genetic markers have been employed to help with paternity determination, confirmation, variety protection, and breeding standard selection. An integrated strategy is required to assist in the creation of breeding programs and solve the problems of improving indigenous breeds, like sheep and goats. Genome selection and innovative reproductive technologies are examples of scientific progress that will allow for quicker and more effective genetic improvement. The whole strategy should improve the competitiveness and long-term survivability of the indigenous population. This chapter is focused on determining particular breeding targets of sheep and goats that represent the sector's priorities and demands, gene-assisted selection, and the capabilities of disease-free indigenous populations.

Keywords: Farm animals, Genetic improvement, Genetic modification, Goats, Indigenous breeding, Sheep.