Spatial modelling improves genomic evaluation in Tanzanian smallholder admixed dairy cattle
This study demonstrated the challenge of achieving accurate genomic evaluation in smallholder settings. By leveraging spatial modelling we maximised the use of available data and improved the separation of genetic and environmental effects. Further work is required to improve smallholder genetic evaluations by understanding environmental and genetic processes that drive the large phenotypic variance in African smallholder setting.
Authors
- Ivan Pocrnić (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5246-7428)
- Athumani Nguluma (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1453-982X)
- Eva Lavrencic
- Zabron Nziku (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7414-7329)
- G. Gorjanc
- Finn Lindgren (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5833-2011)
- Isidore Houaga (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4128-5551)
- R. Mrode
- Julie M.K. Ojango (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0224-5370)
- Appolinaire Djikeng
- Mwai Okeyo
- Chinyere Charlote Ekine-Dzivenu
Institutions
- Roslin Institute (GB)
- Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute (TZ)
- University of Ljubljana (SI)
- Scotland's Rural College (GB)
- Steve Biko Hospital (ZA)
- International Livestock Research Institute (KE)
- University of Pretoria (ZA)
- Sokoine University of Agriculture (TZ)
- University of Edinburgh (GB)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Genetics Selection Evolution
- Published
- 2026-01-21
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1186/s12711-025-01021-w
- Primary Topic
- Genetic and phenotypic traits in livestock
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00
Funders
- Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation
- Government of the United Kingdom
- International Livestock Research Institute
- Scotland’s Rural College
- Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
- Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council