Genetics and Breeding

This paper discusses the range of genetic breeding programs which are available to Australian livestock industries. It presents a short history of genetic evaluation schemes and discusses the Australian Dairy Herd Improvement Scheme, BREEDPLAN for Beef Cattle, PIGBLUP, KIDPLAN, and the newly created Sheep Genetics Australia which combines wool and meat into one database. The paper concludes with an update on the Alpaca Across-Herd Genetic Evaluation (AGE) program and presents data on the traits measured to date. more »

An example from two alpaca breeders looking for generational fleece trait improvements using skin biopsy data as an aid to making better breeding choices. more »

This RIRDC report describes the research conducted as part of the alpaca colour genetics project to identify the genes involved in the inheritance of white colour in alpacas. Three approaches were used (Mendelian, physical and genetic) in an attempt to unravel the mystery surrounding colour inheritance in alpacas. This project has successfully identified key mutations in genes that lead to differences in fibre colour in alpacas. Other genes, which play a role in colour variation in other species, were cleared of involvement in colour variation in alpacas. Through extensive observational analysis a model for Mendelian inheritance of the major colours was developed. In combination, these findings provide breeders with information that allows them to make informed colour breeding choices. more »