Progress in Genomic Mating in Domestic Animals.

Area of Science:

• Animal breeding and genetics
• Quantitative genetics
• Genomics

Background:

• Truncated selection using estimated breeding values (EBV) improves genetic progress but increases inbreeding.
• High inbreeding reduces genetic variation, hindering long-term sustainable breeding.
• A balance between genetic gain and inbreeding is crucial for modern breeding programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the principles, methodology, and applications of genomic mating (GM).
• To highlight GM's advantages over pedigree-based selection in livestock and poultry breeding.
• To emphasize GM's role in achieving sustainable genetic improvement and breed conservation.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on genomic mating strategies.
• Comparison of genomic mating with traditional breeding value estimation methods (e.g., BLUP).
• Analysis of GM's effectiveness in managing inbreeding and maximizing genetic gain.

Main Results:

• Genomic mating provides more accurate breeding value predictions than pedigree-based methods.
• GM effectively controls population inbreeding levels.
• GM facilitates long-term genetic gain and sustainable breeding programs.

Conclusions:

• Genomic mating is a superior strategy for modern animal breeding, particularly for complex traits.
• GM is highly suitable for the conservation and genetic improvement of local livestock and poultry breeds.
• The adoption of GM is essential for sustainable genetic improvement in animal agriculture.