Outline of R&D directions for Australian pig genetics

Abstract

Staff at the Animal Genetics and Breeding Unit (AGBU) have contributed to better use of genetically superior pigs in the Australian pig industry through R&D projects conducted in cooperation with breeders, the development of genetic evaluations tools (PIGBLUP, National Pig Improvement Program (NPIP), PBSELECT), training of industry personnel in genetic principles and provision of fee-based consultancy services to breeders. Often these activities are inter-linked and a wide range of expertise is required to be able to respond effectively to the needs of the industry in regard to genetic services. ... Infra-structure has been put in place to facilitate the uptake of PIGBLUP, NPIP and PBSELECT and to provide extension material to the industry. Overall, the awareness of Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) has increased in the industry as a whole and communication with breeders, producers and industry extension personnel has improved over the last 5 years. These achievements enable the development of a number of new projects that are proposed to accelerate genetic gain and adoption of improved genetics in the Australian pig industry. Each project has a R&D component which will be conducted in cooperation with breeders who are expected to provide in-kind contributions. This cooperation fosters adoption of new technologies by breeders. The relevant modules in AGBU's genetic evaluation systems (PIGBLUP, NPIP, PBSELECT) will be modified to accommodate R&D results. In addition, information about these projects and genetic principles in general will be disseminated to industry.