About this Research Topic
Genomics is currently revolutionizing livestock production and livestock breeding in large parts of the world. Do developing countries lose out, again? This Research Topic explores options of using genomic data of livestock populations in developing countries to better understand their diversity and to support their genetic improvement.
Genetic mechanisms of adaptation to harsh environments, accentuated by climate change and exposure to disease pathogens, are not well understood so far. Genomic tools (whole genome sequence; SNP genotypes; transcriptome profiles) and approaches (admixture analysis; parentage assessment; landscape genomics; signature of selection analysis; imputation etc) for livestock improvement in low-input production systems in developing countries are gaining research attention.
The best genotypes for hot and dry areas are different from the best types for hot and humid environments. Phenotypes, not only genotypes, are in great demand but always challenging to record. Research exploring ways of making the best out of sparse data and providing solutions to the identification of best genotypes in developing countries’ production systems is welcomed.
Crossbreeding local genetic resources with “exotic” breeds that have been bred for high productivity in their home environments has long been regarded as a threat to genetic diversity of local breeds. However, it is currently considered as an option for increased livestock productivity by many decision makers especially by local farmers. Genomic data provides even greater opportunities of assessing the kind and level of crossbreeding (i.e whether high or low proportions of exotic ancestry), which may be utilized for particular regions.
The Research Topic will discuss all types of livestock, from chicken to camel, goose to goat and alpaca to yak. We welcome both Original Research and Review articles in these areas to promote the use of genomics in developing countries.
Keywords: Indigenous livestock, genetic adaptation, genomics, production systems
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
