INVITATION PAPER ANIMAL BREEDING TODAY — ITS DIMENSIONS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Abstract

Since its inception early in the present century, the science of animal breeding has been directed toward the effective application of quantitative genetic theory for improvement of animal populations. This has involved developing and refining biomedical techniques for estimating genetic parameters, designing mating systems for efficient utilization of additive and nonadditive genetic variance, developing criteria of net merit that have both genetic and economic relevance, and designing practical testing procedures for evaluating genetic differences in productive merit. While the main*** emphasis has been on quantitative inheritance, attention has also been given to qualitative genetics, specifically in respect of defective conditions and disease resistance, and to the implications of chromosomal aberrations. Controlled laboratory studies, designed to test genetic theory, have demonstrated the considerable potential that exists for improving animal productivity through manipulation of the genetic variability in animal populations. To date, relatively little of this potential has been utilized in commercial livestock populations and, while substantial genetic improvement has been achieved by the process of breed substitution, it is clear that the science of animal breeding has progressed far beyond its practical application. For this reason, the emphasis in the science has gradually shifted from refinement of theory to the more practical issues involved in effective application at the industry level.