Framework for assessing genetic variation in livestock using demographic, pedigree, and genomic measures
) over time. Genomic information now provides unprecedented accuracy in characterizing allelic variation, population structure with admixture, and the dynamics of inbreeding and drift. Each data source differs in availability, resolution, and interpretive limits; therefore, complementary use of demographic, pedigree, and genomic measures is recommended for effective monitoring and decision-making. This framework outlines the main properties, applications, and constraints of these approaches and provides guidance on selecting appropriate indicators for monitoring genetic variation within and among livestock populations. Its implementation supports the objectives of the Global Plan of Action for Animal Genetic Resources and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, contributing to evidence-based management of livestock diversity worldwide.
Authors
- Dominique Ouédraogo (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5752-1534)
- G Mészáros
- Ino Čurik (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7090-1654)
- Christian Looft
- Licia Colli (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7221-2905)
- Johann Soelkner
- Pamela Burger
- Gregoire Leroy
- Yuri Tani Utsunomiya
- Paul Boettcher
- Jack Windig
- Chang Xu
Institutions
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore (IT)
- Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (IT)
- University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna (AT)
- University of Zagreb (HR)
- Department of Animal Health (VN)
- Neubrandenburg University of Applied Sciences (DE)
- St. Joseph University In Tanzania (TZ)
- Hungarian Academy of Sciences (HU)
- Wageningen University & Research (NL)
- BOKU University (AT)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Frontiers in Genetics
- Published
- 2026-04-22
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.3389/fgene.2026.1792347
- Primary Topic
- Genetic and phenotypic traits in livestock
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00