天美传媒

Selective breeding; Indigenous cattle; Genomic selection; Disease resistance; Growth traits; Genetic markers; Sustainable livestock; Genotype-phenotype correlation; Breed conservation; Livestock productivity

Introduction

Indigenous cattle breeds, often underutilized and under-researched, hold tremendous potential in livestock development due to their unique adaptation to local environments, disease tolerance, and low-input management requirements. However, they typically exhibit lower productivity in terms of milk and meat compared to exotic or crossbred counterparts [1-5].With growing concerns over climate change, emerging diseases, and the need for sustainable animal agriculture, enhancing the performance of native breeds without compromising their hardiness has become a strategic priority. Recent advances in genomic selection and molecular breeding tools provide opportunities to identify and propagate desirable traits such as rapid growth, feed efficiency, and disease resistance in indigenous cattle. This study explores the application of genomic approaches to selective breeding programs aimed at improving both growth rates and disease resilience in native cattle populations in India and sub-Saharan Africa [6-10].

Discussion

The research was carried out on three indigenous breeds—Sahiwal (India), Boran (Kenya), and N'Dama (West Africa)—each known for their environmental resilience but limited productivity. DNA samples from 500 animals per breed were collected for genomic sequencing, and phenotypic data (growth rate, body weight, disease incidence, and reproductive traits) were recorded over a 12-month period. Genotyping was performed using high-density SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) arrays, and genome-wide association studies (GWAS) were conducted to detect quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with superior growth and natural resistance to tick-borne diseases and mastitis.

Significant genomic regions associated with higher average daily gain (ADG), feed conversion efficiency, and resistance to Theileria parva (East Coast Fever) and Anaplasma spp. were identified. For instance, in Sahiwal cattle, favorable alleles on chromosome 14 were linked to increased muscular development, while certain immune-regulatory gene variants in N'Dama were found to be strongly associated with resistance to trypanosomiasis.

These genomic markers were then used to select elite breeding bulls and cows through marker-assisted selection (MAS). The offspring of these genetically selected animals showed measurable improvements in target traits: up to 15% faster growth, 12% higher body weight at 12 months, and reduced disease incidence. Importantly, these gains were achieved while preserving the adaptive traits of the indigenous breeds, such as heat tolerance, forage efficiency, and resistance to endemic parasites.

The study also incorporated community-based breeding programs (CBBPs), which involved local farmers in data collection, animal selection, and on-farm validation. This participatory approach not only ensured field-level applicability but also promoted breed conservation by increasing the economic value of native cattle. Farmers reported higher returns due to faster market weight attainment and fewer veterinary expenses.

While the genomic tools proved effective, some challenges included the cost of genotyping, limited availability of reference genomes for local breeds, and the need for consistent record-keeping. However, collaboration with national livestock research institutes and integration of low-cost genotyping platforms helped overcome some of these barriers.

Conclusion

Selective breeding powered by genomic insights holds immense potential for transforming indigenous cattle into high-performance livestock without sacrificing their adaptability. This approach enables the identification and propagation of favorable genes related to growth and disease resistance, resulting in healthier, faster-growing animals that are still well-suited to local climates and management systems. By combining molecular genetics with traditional breeding wisdom, this strategy ensures both productivity gains and biodiversity conservation. The success of such programs depends on farmer involvement, infrastructural support, and policy alignment with sustainable breeding goals. Ultimately, genomics-driven selection in native cattle breeds offers a promising pathway toward resilient and profitable livestock systems in developing regions.

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