Genetic Diversity of Five Galician (Northwestern Spain) Local Primitive Bovine Breeds Using Pedigree Records

Abstract

Characterization, inventory and monitoring trends of animal genetic resources of local breeds are crucial factors for the development of conservation strategies. Using genealogical information, the genetic diversity of five Spanish local bovine breeds located in the northwest of Spain in the region of Galicia, and called in the past Morenas Gallegas (Cachena, Caldelá, Frieiresa, Limiá and Vianesa), has been analysed. The results achieved a good quality of pedigree records in terms of integrity and deepness. In spite of the low census of the five breeds, (no more or even less than one thousand animals), the strategies developed for genetic diversity conservation since the end of the last century revealed positive results. An increase of generation intervals, the use of reproductive technologies and a higher animal exchange between herds are some strategies suggested to preserve the genetic diversity of the five Galician bovine breeds analysed.