Breeding tools for the future
Breeding tools for the future include the discovery of genetic markers carried in Merino DNA for traits that are difficult or expensive to measure, as well as diagnostic tests indicative of parasite resistance.
AWI has invested considerably with Meat and Livestock Australia in a research program called SheepGenomics which is focussed on discovering the genes affecting economically important traits in sheep.
This AWI and Meat and Livestock Australia joint research program is also focused on developing new ways to best manage the potential of these genes to improve sheep performance.
The goal is to lay the foundations for long-term productivity, quality, health and welfare improvements in the national sheep population, leading to higher sheep producer profits, better quality output and greater productivity.
Through SheepGenomics, sheep producers will be able to breed for a wider range of traits of economic importance with a much greater certainty.
Using gene marker technology will allow sheep producers to select for traits that are:
- Difficult to measure (e.g. parasite resistance)
- Expensive to measure (e.g. staple strength)
- Require slaughter (e.g. eating quality)
- Measured late in life or are sex limited (e.g. reproduction)
The outcomes of this research are very directed tools, for sheep breeding and sheep management, that will underpin long-term productivity and quality improvements in the national sheep flock. These include:
- High throughput gene marker panels
- Diagnostic test for worm resistance
- New traits
- Proof of concept of therapeutic interventions
The four major production targets in SheepGenomics are:
- Resistance to internal parasites
- The biology of wool production
- Muscle production and energy utilisation
- Reproductive success
Resources
Contact
Geoff Lindon
Manager Sheep Technologies
Tel: +61 2 8295 3100
Contact via email
Related links
Related websites
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Listen online
- SheepGenomics,
Innovation Radio, Oct 2004 (Windows media file 2Mb)
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