bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adding value to South African landrace breeds conservation through utilisation
Authors: Ramsay K. , Smuts M. , Els H.C.
Published: August 2011

The paper analyses the importance of breed conservation in South Africa by means of added value through a number of species. This principle was applied to some of Southern Africa populations: Nguni cattle, indigenous pigs, indigenous sheep landraces including fat-tails (Pedi, Damara, Zulu, Afrikaner) and fat-rumped breeds (Persian) as well as the improved Boer goat. The latter is an example of what can be achieved by selecting an indigenous breed for a specific purpose.

For each breed, possible alternative uses are explained by analysing their characters. For the Nguni cattle (very well adapted to local conditions) a premium is paid for hides with minimal tick damage as these are used for car upholstery, an important added value. Beef quality and easy calving are also relevant factors that are important when crossing the Nguni with European breeds.

Indigenous sheep landraces are often used to develop hardy composites and this helps their conservation, while the Boer goat is in demand in many countries for meat-production and has been exported world-wide; this is probably the only selected meat-goat in the world.

Indigenous pig breeds are capable of generating a good income and are satisfactory alternatives to modern breeds.
Marwari goat of Indian desert
Authors: Rai B. , Khan B.U. , Rout P.K.
Published: August 2011

Marwari is a desert goat breed of India and is found in the western part of the country. It is well known for its tolerance of hot and cold climates, disease resistance and thriving in very harsh nutritional conditions. It is a hairy black coloured goat. The means of the body length, body weight and ear length were estimated as 54 cm, 83 cm and 20 cm in males and 49 cm, 72 cm and 16 cm in females. Males have larger and stronger horns than females. The average adult body weight in males and females is 46 and 30 kg, respectively. The overall milk yield at 200 days is 98 kg. The kidding percentage in field conditions is 79.3 percent and multiple birth is about 19 percent. The Marwari is an early maturing breed as the average age of puberty is 306 days. The mortality in kid is 3.3 percent and in adults 3.5 percent in field conditions. The marketing and production economics of goats in its home tract have been analysed to ascertain viability of goat enterprise. The breed improvement programme was started in 1990–91 in its home tract involving farmers' flocks.
Phenotypic characterization of three strains of indigenous goats in Tanzania
Authors: Madubi M.A. , Kifaro G.C. , Petersen P.H.
Published: August 2011

Characterization of three strains of indigenous goats found in three regions of Tanzania was undertaken on the basis of their phenotypes viz: body weight and measurements, colour pattern, ears and horns.

The three strains differed in the body weights and in the frequencies of the different coat colours. The Dodoma and Mtwara strains had similar body measurements, whereas the Kigoma strain was significantly smaller.
Performance evaluation, conservation and improvement of Sahiwal cattle in India
Authors: Joshi B.K. , Singh A. , Gandhi R.S.
Published: August 2011

The Sahiwal cattle, one of the best dairy breeds of Zebu cattle in India and Pakistan, originate from the Montgomery district of Pakistan and is distributed on farmer herds in certain pockets of the bordering districts of Punjab and Rajsthan in India. The animals of this breed are also available in Kenya and are used for crossing with local East African Zebu types to improve milk production. Sahiwal cattle have deep body, loose skin, short legs, stumpy horns and a broad head with pale red to dark brown body colour. The average body weight in adult females and males is around 350 and 500 kg, respectively. The animals of this breed are maintained on various State and Central Government farms, privately owned farms, charitable trusts and a small proportion of animals are also available with the farmers. More than 1 200 breedable females are available at various farms in the country. The average lactation milk yield of Sahiwal cattle on organized farms ranges between 1 500 to 2 500 kg. However, in well-managed herds, the highest lactation milk production in certain cows is more than 4 500 kg. The overall weighted average milk yield, age at first calving, lactation length and calving interval based on the performance at various herds is around 1 900 kg, 36 months, 315 days and 420 days, respectively. The fat and Solid Non Fat (SNF) percent ranges from 4.6 to 5.2 percent and 8.9 to 9.3 percent, respectively. Quite a large proportion of pure-bred Sahiwal cattle maintained on organized breeding farms has been used for the production of cross-bred cattle. As a result, different cross-bred strains of dairy cattle viz Karan Swiss, Karan Fries and Frieswal have evolved at the National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal and Military Dairy Farms. The breed has also been utilized for the production of synthetic strains like Jamaica Hope (JH), Australian Milking Zebu (AMZ) and Australian Friesian Sahiwal (AFS) in other countries. Currently, efforts are being made to characterize, evaluate and conserve the breed in field conditions. More than 0.10 million doses of frozen semen of this breed are cryopreserved at various semen banks in the country. The frozen semen is being utilized for strengthening and genetically improving the existing herds of the breed through progeny testing programmes of sires associating various herds of Sahiwal in the country.
Characterization of Beldi chicken and turkeys in rural poultry flocks of Morocco. Current state and future outlook
Authors: Benabdeljelil K. , Arfaoui T.
Published: August 2011

The main characteristics of Beldi (meaning “native” in Arabic) poultry raised in rural areas were studied in the Khenifra Region through extensive surveys.

Beldi chickens have large phenotypic variability. Black, brown, grey and white colours, pure or mixed, are frequently observed in chickens' featherings while turkeys are predominantly bronze. Plumage types were fairly homogeneous in both species. Single combs and dented combs were respectively predominant in chicken hens and roosters.

Sexual maturity was reached at 154 days for roosters, 168 for hens in chicken, around 217 days for toms and 231 for turkey hens. The age at first egg averaged 5.8 months for hens and 8.4 months for turkey hens. The number of eggs laid per hen per year was 78 for chicken and 69 for turkey. Hatchability rate was 78 and 80 percent for chicken and turkeys, respectively. Diseases were the main cause of mortality, which could affect up to 77 percent of chicken flocks.

Few preliminary urgent steps for the conservation of Beldi poultry are discussed with other production improvement proposals.
Characteristics of indigenous chicken in Iraq
Authors: Al-Rawi A.A. , Al-Athari A.K.
Published: August 2011

The Iraqi indigenous chickens (I.I.C.) are well adapted to a wide range of ambient temperature (-5°C to 50°C). They are found throughout the country and are raised for meat and eggs. The birds are active and independent foragers.

The IPA Agricultural Research Centre played a role in the purification and multiplication of five different genetic lines according to feather colour. These lines are the progeny of segregating populations of the foundation stock which was a specimen collected from all over the country. The plumage colour of the I.I.C. lines varied from white to black. Most of the birds have white skin colour; comb type is single; egg-shell colour varied between white, tinted to brown; age at sexual maturity ranged between 162 to 166 days; body weight at sexual maturity was found to be similar for the differentlines (1.4 kg) indicating that I.I.C are small-sized birds and variations among lines of the I.I.C were significant for egg production, egg weight and feed efficiency.
Iniciativas de conservación la cabra de raza Bermeya de Asturias
Authors: Figueroa P. , Fernández I. , Gómez E. , Royo L.J. , Álvarez I. , Goyache F.
Published: August 2011

En este trabajo se describe la cabra de raza Bermeya de Asturias (norte de España). Es una raza de capa rubia que constituyó hasta mediados del siglo XX la población caprina más importante de la rama occidental de la Cornisa Cantábrica española. Los reproductores adultos de esta raza presentan pesos medios de 64 kg en los machos y 42 kg en las hembras. La alzada a la cruz media es de 81 cm en los machos y 74 en las hembras. La longitud escápulo isquiática es, respectivamente, de 75 y 71 cm. Se ha realizado una encuesta en 27 explotaciones inscritas en el Libro Genealógico de la raza para estimar el riesgo estructural que presenta la población. La encuesta caracterizó las condiciones estructurales y socioeconómicas que comprendían la composición del rebaño, la base territorial, instalaciones y maquinaria, la alimentación del ganado, manejo y gestión de reproductores, producciones, destino de la producción y comercialización, estado sanitario, aspectos sociales de la explotación, e ingresos y primas. El sistema productivo en que se desenvuelve la raza Bermeya resulta especialmente frágil: las explotaciones son de pequeña dimensión y con un acusado componente tradicional; las producciones caprinas pueden no resultar competitivas si no existe un decidido apoyo de las administraciones al mantenimiento de esta actividad. Los ganaderos que mantienen ganado de raza Bermeya son fundamentalmente jóvenes y serían receptivos a una acción sostenida de la administración.
Chilika buffaloes in Orissa: a unique germplasm
Authors: Patro B.N. , Mishra P.K. , Rao P.K.
Published: August 2011

People in the villages situated on the bank of the famous salt lake Chilika in Orissa rear buffaloes with almost zero input. These animals, endowed with the special quality of entering deep into the lake and feeding on the vegetation that grows there, help to maintain the natural ecosystem and provide good earnings for the rural people. This biodiversity in buffalo germplasm needs to be preserved. The mean body length, girth, height at withers and weight were 122.3±0.2 cm, 169.7±0.3 cm, 123.9±2.7 cm and 320.0±0.7 kg, respectively. The mean age at first calving was 1 331.4±6.8 days. The average of the first two calving intervals was 431.7±3.6 days. The average daily milk yield of the first three lactations and lactation length was 2.6±0.01 kg and 238.7±2.1 days, respectively. Most of the economic traits had high heritability. The temperature of the habitat ranges approximately between 15°C in winter to 40°C in summer.
Characterization and conservation of the American Milking Devon
Authors: Splan R.K. , Sponenberg D.P.
Published: August 2011

The American Milking Devon Association was established in 1978 to record and preserve a unique type of cattle originally developed in the United States in the 17th century from imported English and contemporary American stocks. Phenotypically, it exhibits a spectrum of red colour, with light-coloured curved horns and medium body size. The breed is one of the few remaining triple-purpose breeds in the United States, and has been selected by breeders since colonial times for excellent temperament and powerful draught ability, along with desirable dairy and beef characteristics. It is well adapted to low-input management schemes and harsh environments. The American Milking Devon is currently found on the ‘critical’ list of the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy, indicating that there are fewer than 200 new registrations annually. Since the inception of the American Milking Devon Association, a small group of dedicated breeders has done much to preserve these cattle. However, new management tools are now being introduced to assist breeders and allow conservation of genetic diversity while retaining the original breed traits in terms of size, colour, beef and dairy production, and character and working ability.
The production characteristics of the indigenous Imroz and Kivircik sheep breeds in Turkey
Authors: Yilmaz A. , Ozcan M. , Ekiz B. , Ceyhan A. , Altine A.
Published: August 2011

This study was carried out to investigate the fertility, milk production and body weight of ewes and the survival and growth characteristics of lambs of the indigenous Imroz and Kivircik sheep breeds. The Imroz and Kivircik sheep breeds are included among the genetic resources in the project for the conservation of the indigenous breeds in Turkey.

Conception rates for Imroz and Kivircik ewes were 57.6% and 81.7% respectively, litter sizes were 1.2 and 1.2 respectively, milk yields were 89 kg and 62 kg respectively and average live weights (2–7 years of age) were 43 kg and 55 kg, respectively. Imroz and Kivircik lambs had survival rates at weaning (90th day) of 98% and 96%, birth weights of 3.3 kg and 4.1 kg and weaning weights of 19.8 kg and 28.0 kg, respectively.

The results showed that the Kivircik sheep were heavier and the lambs had a better growth rate until weaning than the Imroz breed. However, the milk production of the Imroz ewes was higher than that of Kivircik. The lambs of both breeds had a satisfactory survival and growth rates until weaning and these results might be regarded as a desired adaptation of the Imroz and Kivircik lambs to the environmental conditions of the Marmara Region.
Conservation of poultry genetic resource in the Veneto region of Italy
Authors: De Marchi M. , Cassandro M. , Targhetta C. , Baruchello M. , Notter D.R.
Published: August 2011

A conservation scheme for local poultry breeds from the Veneto region (Italy), the Co.Va. (Conservazione e Valorizzazione di Razze Avicole Locali Venete - Conservation and valorisation of local poultry genetic resources of Veneto region) project began in 2000 with finance provided by the Veneto Region. This project involved four organic farms located in different areas (mountain, hill and plain) in the region. The local chicken breeds included in the project were the Robusta Maculata, Robusta Lionata, Ermellinata di Rovigo, Pépoi and Padovana; the local duck breeds were the Germana Veneta and Mignon; the local turkey breeds were the Bronzato Comune and Ermellinato di Rovigo; and the local guinea fowl breed was the Camosciata. All breeds are dual-purpose breeds and are utilized for meat and egg production. The Department of Animal Science of the University of Padova planned a marker-assisted conservation scheme based on the maintenance and multiplication of these breeds within their production system (in situ conservation scheme). The objectives of the farmers involved in this project were to use these genotypes to generate typical regional products for local markets, to support the development of economically marginal areas through the revaluation of local breeds and to allow the preservation of animal biodiversity.
Status of Nili Ravi buffaloes in India
Authors: Vij P.K. , Tantia M.S.
Published: August 2011

Nili Ravi buffaloes are native to the Ferozepur, Amritsar and Gurdaspur districts of Punjab. A systematic survey was conducted in this area to study the socio-economic status of the farmers, and the demographic distribution and breed characteristics of Nili Ravi buffaloes. The majority of the farmers surveyed (84%) kept buffaloes. About 34 % of buffalo farmers were landless. Average land holdings were 1.50 hectares. Animals were provided with separate houses. The buffaloes were tied most of the time and fed chaffed fodder. Natural service was mainly practiced for the breeding of animals. Very few buffaloes had typical Nili Ravi characters (all extremities white). Most of the Nili Ravi type buffaloes now available have white markings on the forehead and hind legs only, and some have wall eyes i.e. eyes with a whitish iris. Average daily milk yield was 6.67 kg in a lactation period of 8–9 months. Nili Ravi type buffaloes constituted only 10.8 %, 8.7 % and 14 % of total buffaloes surveyed in Ferozepur, Amritsar and Gurdaspur districts, respectively. The estimated population of these buffaloes was about 0.2 million. The population of Nili Ravi is declining because of the non-availability of typical Nili Ravi bulls and non-marketability of Nili Ravi type (2–3 white extremities) animals.
The Damascus (Shami) goat of Cyprus
Authors: Mavrogenis A.P. , Antoniades N.Y. , Hooper R.W.
Published: August 2011

The Damascus goat, also known as the Shami, is a native breed of Syria and other Near East countries. It was imported into Cyprus some 70 years ago to upgrade the local Cypriot goat population. For over 40 years it has been improved through genetic selection for milk and meat. The Damascus goat was one of the breeds that the Technical Consultation of FAO/UNEB on Animal Genetic Resources, Conservation and Management agreed should be given a high priority due to its qualities.
L'élevage porcin au Tchad: Bilan de l'introduction, de l'amélioration et de la diffusion des races exotiques
Authors: Logténé Y. Mopaté , Koussou M.O. , Kaboré-Zoungrana C.Y.
Published: August 2011

Le porc local d'origine ibérique a été introduit au Tchad en 1918, par des missionnaires en provenance du Cameroun. Ensuite en 1951, le porc limousin originaire de France fut importé par le service de l'élevage afin d'améliorer le format et le rendement du porc local. Après quatre années d'essais, ce programme a été abandonné au Nord, essentiellement pour des raisons religieuses. En revanche, dans la partie sud majoritairement non musulmane, la diffusion a enregistré un succès relatif jusqu'en 1958. Par la suite, des géniteurs de la race Yorkshire et Berkshire furent importés du Moyen Congo. Quelques élevages “semi-industriels”, installés dans les années 1950 et aux mains des expatriés, ont adopté ces races et ont contribué à l'exportation de viande dans la sous-région de l'Afrique Equatoriale française (AEF). Les traditions d'élevage des populations locales, l'appui des services agricoles et des sociétés de développement (Paysannats et Communautés villageoises) de la région ont contribué au succès relatif de cette diffusion. En outre, l'absence des relevés zootechniques précis, n'a pas permis d'apprécier les performances de ces races et des métis. L'alimentation, le gardiennage défectueux et le manque de déboucher pour la production paysanne ont été des obstacles majeurs au développement et à la vulgarisation de l'élevage porcin en milieu paysan.
Krishna Valley cattle in India: status, characteristics and utility
Authors: Karthickeyan S.M.K. , Saravanan R. , Thangaraju P.
Published: August 2011

The Krishna Valley breed of cattle is a draught breed able to withstand extremely hot, humid climatic conditions and which has the capacity to undertake heavy work in the black cotton soil in the valleys of the Krishna river in India. Their home tract is restricted to a few taluks (divisions within a district) of the northern parts of Karnataka. The distinguishing morphological features of the breed are the presence of a black-coloured muzzle and black shades dispersed over the body with the lower half of the scrotum also being black in colour. The average values for height, body length and chest girth are 116.4±1.2, 128.4±2.0 and 144.7±2.0 cm in cows; and 150.5±0.5, 146.0±3.0 and 191.0±1.0 cm in bullocks, respectively. The cytogenetic investigation revealed the normal characteristics of cattle chromosomes (2n=60). The microsatellite alleles occurred at frequencies of 0.0208 (ILSTS005) to 0.7604 (ETH152) with the polymorphism information content (PIC) values in the range of 0.3856 (ETH152) to 0. 7725 (ILSTS034). The breed has a relatively long productive life as the number of calvings can go up to twelve. As the number of animals of this breed remaining is only in the order of a few hundred, conservation measures are to be taken to avoid the extinction of this valuable germplasm.
Caractérisation morphologique des petits ruminants (ovins et caprins) de race locale “Mossi” au Burkina Faso
Authors: Traoré A. , Tamboura H.H. , Kaboré A. , Yaméogo N. , Bayala B. , Zaré I.
Published: August 2011

Cette étude a été menée dans les élevages périurbains et au niveau des marchés à bétail de Ouagadougou avec pour objectif de caractériser sur le plan phénotypique les petits ruminants de race locale “Mossi”. 314 animaux (202 ovins et 112 caprins) repartis chez 25 producteurs ont été concernés. Les mesures corporelles suivantes ont été effectuées: le poids vif (PV), le périmètre thoracique (PT), la hauteur au garrot (HG), la hauteur à la croupe (HC) et la longueur de la diagonale du corps (LDC). Ont été également enregistrées la présence ou non de cornes, de barbiche, la couleur de la robe (blanc, noir, noir et blanc, brun, blanc-brun) et la structure du poil (ras et dur, ras et lisse, long et dur, long et lisse).

Les résultats ont mis en évidence entre les variables corporelles mesurées, des différences liées au sexe en fonction de l’âge. Les ovins locaux de type “Mossi” sont eumétriques avec un PV moyen à l’âge adulte de 23,3±5,0 kg et une HG de 59,3±5,5 cm. Chez les caprins, le PV moyen est de 20,2plusmn;4,5 kg et la HG est de 48,4±4,1 cm.

Ce sont des types génétiques à robes multicolores avec cependant une prédominance de la couleur “noir et blanc” chez les ovins, “blanc-brun” chez les caprins. Le poil est généralement “ras et dur” chez les ovins et “ras et lisse” chez les caprins. Le port des oreilles est “dressé et court” chez les caprins et “tombant et court” chez les ovins.

La grande variabilité notée pour la couleur de la robe et le PV chez les individus de ces races indique de grandes possibilités d'amélioration génétique par sélection.
The status of cattle genetic resources in North Ethiopia: On-farm characterization of six major cattle breeds
Authors: Zerabruk M. , Vangen O. , Haile M.
Published: August 2011

On-farm surveys and characterisation of six indigenous north Ethiopian cattle breeds (Afar, Arado, Begait, Fogera, Medenes and Raya) was carried out with the objective of determining the current status of these breeds. Information from a structured questionnaire distributed to 450 farmers, 37 group discussions, field measurements of heart girth and height on 25 males and 25 females from each breed and secondary information were used to carry out the study. Population size of the Arado breed increased by more than three fold between 1992 and 1999, while the Raya, Fogera and Begait population decreased by57, 27 and 67%; between 1981 and 1999 respectively. Three distinctive types were identified within the Afar and Begait breeds with different adaptation and threat levels in relation to changes to the bio-physical and social environment. Overall production and reproduction performance of the breeds in the pastoral production system (Afar and Begait) was higher than the Raya and Medenes, and Arado and Fogera breeds of the agro-pastoral and mixed crop/livestock production systems respectively. Extinction probability for most ofthe breeds was high, the highest (0.67) being for the Begait breed. On the other hand, except for the initiative taken to evaluate, improve and conserve the Fogera breed at the Metekel and Andasa cattle breeding ranches, there are no institutionalized attempts towards improving and/or conserving the other breeds.
Caractérisation phénotypique des bovins à viande (Bos taurus et Bos indicus) au centre (Bouaké) et au nord (Korhogo) de la Côte d'Ivoire
Authors: Sokouri D.P. , Loukou N.E. , Yapi-Gnaoré C.V. , Mondeil F. , Gnangbe F.
Published: August 2011

Une enquête a été menée dans les régions de Bouaké et de Korhogo pour inventorier et caractériser les différents types de bovins à viande. Des mesures barymétriques ont été enregistrées sur 511 animaux à Bouaké et 929 à Korhogo pour lesquels les éleveurs ont été invités à indiquer le nom du type phénotypique. L'inventaire des élevages a permis d'identifier 5 types phénotypiques de bovins que sont le N'Dama, le Baoulé, le Zébu, le Méré et le “Métis”. Les descripteurs qui permettent d'identifier au mieux ces différents types de bovins sont la présence/absence de bosse, la couleur de la robe, le périmètre thoracique et la hauteur au garrot. Malgré le métissage qui s'exerce sur elles, les races taurines (N'Dama et Baoulé) présentent des populations homogènes et stables. Le Méré présente une population homogène dans la région de Korhogo et semble être un type phénotypique bien fixé avec 83% d'animaux bien classés. Le pourcentage moyen d'animaux bien classés dans les régions de Bouaké et Korhogo est respectivement de 79 et 68%; ce qui dénote une très bonne connaissance des animaux par les éleveurs. Les caractères déterminants identifiés à partir de cette analyse peuvent servir à définir les standards des races concernées.
The N'Dama cattle genetic improvement programme: a review
Authors: Bosso N.A. , Corr N. , Njie M. , Fall A. , van der Waaij E.H. , van Arendonk J.A.M. , Jaitner J. , Dempfle L. , Agyemang K.
Published: August 2011

This paper reviews the successful N'Dama cattle genetic improvement programme implemented in a low input production system at the International Trypanotolerance Centre (ITC) in 1994, in The Gambia. The first part of the paper presents the genetic improvement programme. The second part deals with the analysis of the genetic improvement programme. The success of the genetic improvement programme expressed through genetic progress and the benefits for the farmers is encouraging. Recommendations to strengthen the implementation process in the field are made.
Status and conservation of Mewari and Jaisalmeri camels in India
Authors: Mehta S.C. , Bhardwaj B. , Sahani M.S.
Published: August 2011

The Mewari and Jaisalmeri breeds of camel are among the four major breeds of Indian camel. The Mewari breed is known for the production of milk and its adaptability to the hilly terrain of the Aravali hills in south Rajasthan whereas the Jaisalmeri breed is known for its riding and race potential. A total of 320 camels from 16 herds in eight villages belonging to three districts of the major breeding tract of the Mewari camel were covered. The population of the Mewari camel was estimated to be 16 221 heads with a 28% decline in the last five years. The extent of cross breeding was estimated to be 36%. The average adult Mewari camel had a 193 cm height at wither, 194 cm heart girth and 158 cm body length. Adult Mewari camels produce about 700 grams of hair per annum and the females produce 5–7 litres of milk per day. An integrated rotational grazing pasture development programme could be of great use in maintaining the Mewari camels with diverse livestock species under optimum production.

To define the status of the Jaisalmeri camel, an investigation encompassing 1 760 camel breeders belonging to the 181 villages distributed over the entire strata of the tract was carried out. The population of the Jaisalmeri camel was estimated to be 118 083 heads with a 31% decline in the last five years. An adult Jaisalmeri camel had a 199 cm height at wither, 211 cm heart girth and 156 cm body length. Adult males and females weighed 593 and 519 kg, respectively. Emphasis should be placed on making the breedable males of the breed available throughout the strata and on improving the utility of the breed for in-situ maintenance of genetic diversity in the breed.
On-farm investigation of local chicken biodiversity and performance potentials in rural areas of Jordan
Authors: Abdelqader A. , Wollny C.B.A. , Gauly M.
Published: August 2011

On-farm surveys were conducted to investigate the biodiversity of local chickens and their performance potential. The study was carried out in rural areas of northern Jordan. A sample of 846 adult local chickens was phenotypically characterized based on morphology, feather colors, comb shape and performance. Body measurements for cluster analyses were recorded on 460 adult females. The most predominant chicken type was the Jordan Baladi (67.3%) followed by the Pakistani (27.7%) and the Brahma (5%). Cluster analyses showed that the three populations are distinct. The Jordan Baladi and the Pakistani were closer to each other than the Brahma. Plumage colors were observed either as single color or mottled (a mix of many colors). The latter was the most predominant (23.1 %) followed by black (19.5%) and light brownish (19.1%). The single comb type was the most predominant (80.3%). Hens of the local chicken reached sexual maturity at about 22-30 weeks of age. The average clutch number was 1-5 per year, with 18-30 eggs per clutch. Each hen laid on average 68.9±3.3 eggs per year. The body size of adult females and males was about 1 240±10g and 1 890±30g, respectively. Indiscriminate crossbreeding was taking place frequently. Genetic characterization would complement the phenotypic characterization and should be conducted. This would help to initiate a program for the preservation of genetic diversity in local chickens in Jordan.
Survey and characterization of South Kanara buffaloes in India
Authors: Kathiravan P. , Sadana D.K. , Mishra B.P. , Kataria R.S. , Kaur P. , Kumar A. , Jayaprakash N.S.
Published: August 2011

Kanarese buffaloes are medium built animals distributed in the South Kanara region on the west coast of South India. These buffaloes are dual purpose animals used mainly for agricultural operations in wet fields and for some milk production. They are famous for racing in water-bound fields. South Kanara buffaloes are moderate milk yielders producing about two to seven litres daily for a lactation period that ranged between 210 to 360 days. Genetic diversity analysis was performed using 10 microsatellite markers in a panel of 48 unrelated animals. The average number of alleles was estimated to be 6.30 with an average heterozygosity of 0.62 per locus. The population showed departure from the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium at all of the 10 loci tested. The heterozygote deficiency was estimated as 9.2% suggesting the presence of considerable inbreeding in the population. The allele frequency distribution followed the normal L-shaped form suggesting that the breed had not encountered a genetic bottleneck in the recent past.
Molecular characterization of two common Chadian cattle breeds
Authors: Flury C. , Ngandolo B.N.R. , Müller B. , Zinsstag J. , Kadarmideen H.N.
Published: August 2011

In previous studies, significant differences inMycobacterium bovisinfection prevalence was reported between two Chadian cattle breeds. Those findings and the established differentiation due to phenotypic characteristics suggest that the two breeds (Arab and Mbororo) are genetically different. To evaluate the genetic structure and the differences between these breeds, the genetic diversity within and between breeds was evaluated based on a total of 205 multilocus genotypes (21 microsatellite loci).

All of the loci under investigation were polymorphic and the number of alleles ranged from 4 to14 within the two populations. The analysis of population fixation resulted in a FSTvalue of 0.006. Further the population assignment of the individual genotypes and the exact test of population differentiation did not support the hypothesis that the samples drawn from the two populations are genetically different. Population admixture and sample collection are discussed as possible reasons for the rejection of the hypothesis. Finally, recommendations for sample collection in extensive systems are given.
Characterization of Banni buffalo of Western India
Authors: Mishra B. P. , Singh K.P. , Chavan D.B. , Sadana D.K. , Katana R.S. , Kathiravan P. , Ahlawat S.P.S.
Published: August 2011

The Banni buffaloes distributed in the Kachchh region of Gujarat state in western India are medium to large in body size with a compact body and typical coiled horns. Mean body length, heart girth and height at withers estimated during the survey were 153.7±0.4 cm, 205.5±0.6 cm and 136.7±0.2 cm, respectively. Data on 397 adult milking buffaloes from Banni area based on interviews with farmers, revealed the mean age at first calving to be 39.7±0.4 months, a mean service period of 66.4±1.3 days, a mean lactation length of 293.3±1.5 days and a mean peak yield of 15.7±0.1 litres. Genetic diversity analysis of Banni buffaloes using a set of 15 heterologus bovine microsatellite markers revealed a high degree of allelic polymorphism with a total of 81 alleles and a mean of 5.4. The observed heterozygosity was found to be moderate with a mean of 0.506 and ranged from 0.125 (ILSTS 045) to 0.795 (ILSTS 008). The mean F value (0.181) across 15 microsatellite loci was significantly positive indicating heterozygote deficiency in the population. The test for Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium revealed seven of the 15 microsatellite loci analyzed showing significant deviations.
GANADO CRIOLLO DEL BRASIL: ORIGEN Y CARACTERISTICAS ZOOTECNICAS
Authors: Camargo A. H. A.
Published: August 2011

This paper describes the origin of one of the most recent Criollo cattle herds in Brazil (approximately 600 head). A description is given. of its zootechnical characteristics and habitat, where the herd is bred. It includes some results on weight at birth, development prior to weaning of heifer calves and weight fluctuation of cows in distinct periods of the year.
CREATION OF CONSERVATION AREAS FOR HU SHEEP IN JIANGSU PROVINCE
Authors: Ruihe Chen
Published: August 2011

A conservation area in Jiangsu Province, China, has been established for the conservation of the Hu sheep, famous for its early sexual maturity and high reproductive rate as well as its beautifully patterned white-wool coat. Local farmers well experienced in raising these sheep are responsible for pure breeding under the control of-administrative and technical units which have been specially created for this purpose. The conservation area is in the main orange and loquat-growing district of the Province. Manure is used to fertilize the trees-and together with the production of meat from culled sheep and the sale of lambskins, the enterprise is economically viable.
CONSERVATION OF GENE RESOURCES OF FARM ANIMALS IN THE NORDIC COUNTRIES
Authors: Maijala K. , Neimann-Sorensen A. , Adalsteinsson S. , Kolstad N. , Danell B. , Gjelstad B.
Published: August 2011

The Nordic Council of ministers decided in 1979 to finance a working party for coordinating the Nordic Animal-Gene Banks (NAGBs). This party has five members, one from each Nordic country and a part-time secretary. The working party has been in contact with several other researchers and institutions and is represented in the corresponding European working party. These links have provided possibilities for fruitful commication. on the initiative of the working party, the agricultural ministries reported on the national situation in their respective countries (maiiala et al., 1986). overall responsibility is considered as an official task. EacF- Kirnistry of Agriculture, in cooperation with other ministries, is responsible for animal conservation. That includes providing necessary investment funds and covering the operating expenses of gene banks.
PRODUCTION POTENTIAL AND BREEDING SCHEMES OF SOME MEDITERRANEAN DAIRY SHEEP BREEDS
Authors: Zervas N. P. , Hatziminaoglou J. , Boyazoglu J. , Georgoudis A.
Published: August 2011

Examinded are some of the most important dairy sheep breeds, among the great diversity of the Mediterranean sheep population, by focusing on their phenotypic characteristics, their productive and reproductive potential as well as on the management practices and systems of testing. Information is also given on their genetic parameters, with emphasis on heritability coefficients, and the range of respective selection and breeding schemes, applied under their particular husbandry conditions.
THE EQUINE BREEDS OF THE MURGE REGION OF ITALY
Authors: Basile A.
Published: August 2011

Two interesting equine populations have been traditionally raised in the Apullian highlands of the Murge. The Murge horse can be traced back to the spanish occupation of this region and is today known for its potential as a pleasure and riding horse. The donkey of Martina Franca, well-known for its crossbreeding potential to produce hardy mules, is actually an endangered population saved only by the intervention of the Italian Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry
STUDY OF THE ANDALUSIAN MINOR BREEDS: EVALUATION OF THE PRIOFITIES OF CONSERVATION
Authors: Rodero E. , Camacho M. E. , Delgado J. V , Rodero A.
Published: August 2011

We have worked with the endangered Andalusian minor breeds. The priorities for the conservation of these breeds have been thoroughly studied. The following factors: antiquity and history of the breed, the number of existing strains or ecotypes, lhe actual number, their ecological and sociological interest, the present genetic status, and their productive importance, have been taken into account in the priority evaluation.

We are presenting the results obtained using our own polarographic method for the evaluation of priorities (priority index). With these data we establish three categories between the studied Andalusian breeds, and at thesame time we propose the most suitable measures for the conservation of each of these categories.
THE CAMEL BREEDS OF INDIA IN SOCIAL AND HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Kohler-Rollefson Ilse
Published: August 2011

This artiele traces the evolution of one-humped camel {C. dromedarius) breeds in India and describes the social and historical factors that contributed to their formation. In India a number of distinct breeds developed from the breeding herds maintained by the Maharajahs of Rajputana for supplying camels for desert warfare. After a summary of the literature, details are provided on the characteristics and historical background of the individual breeds or types. The threats to the continued existence of these breeds and their genetic diversity are also evaluated.
LA PAZA OVINA RASA ARAGONESA: CARACTERES MORFOLÓGICOS Y PRODUCTIVOS
Authors: Alfranca I. Sierra
Published: August 2011

Se presenta el medio, censo y características morfológicas de la raza Rasa Aragonesa, ovino español situado en la cuenca media del río Ebro. Se exponen igualmente sus caracteres productivos (reproducción, pesos, crecimientos y producción de leche) y sus sistemas de explotación, finalizando eon los planes de mejora por selección y cruzamiento.
AUTOCHTHONOUS SHEEP BREEDS IN HUNGARY
Authors: Bodô I. , Koppâny G. , Gera I. , Manczur F.
Published: August 2011

The authors give information on the phenotypic characteristics and production, the history and present state of three autochthonous Hungarian sheep breeds : the Racka, the Tsigai and the Cikta.
THE “GAROLE” - MICROSHEEP OF BENGAL, INDIA
Authors: Ghalsasi P. M. , Nimbkar B. V.
Published: August 2011

In the Sundarbans area of West Bengal (India) there is a breed of microsheep (adult weight 10–14 Kg.) with a very high prolificacy (227%).

This breed may be a valuable source of prolificacy for sheep in India. There are also reasons to believe that it is resistant to footrot. A conservation policy is necessary to preserve this hitherto neglected animal genetic resource.
ECONOMIC BENEFITS OF CONSERVING ANIMAL GENETIC RESOURCES
Authors: Smith Charles
Published: August 2011

The methods of preserving animal genetic resources and the benefits and disadvantages are reviewed. The economic value of preserving germplasm in the face of uncertain needs and opportunities for use in the future is calculated. The conclusion is that the benefits greatly exceed the costs, and in many conditions in developing countries it would be desirable both to preserve and to improve indigenous breeds. International action is desirable to maximize efficiency and minimize risk.
Short note: Laying hens may have lost important genes
Authors: Sørensen P. , Christensen L. G.
Published: August 2011

The intensive genetic improvement of laying hens has created a hen with an enormous laying capacity when producing in cage systems. In later years, however, it has been obvious that genes or gene combinations which facilitate the birds' ability to interact with other hens in a flock are lost or suppressed due to the narrow breeding goal which has been maximum egg yield in cage systems.
Why should we become involved in the State of the World of Animal Genetic Resources process? A view from Asia
Authors: Bhat P.N.
Published: August 2011

Biological diversity is the vital organic resource on which the present and future sustenance of humankind depends. The farm animal genetic resource (AnGR) sector of this diversity provides the variety and variability of species, breeds and populations including unique genotypes which underpin an essential component of food and agriculture production. Judicious use and enhancement of these living resources must be ensured, also with their conservation, so that we may meet the increasing demands for food.
Use of DNA markers to assist with product traceability and pedigree analysis and their role in breed conservation
Authors: Alderson G.L.H. , Plastow G.S.
Published: August 2011

Modern pig breeds in Europe owe their origin to a mixture of Asian and European breeds and types. They evolved during the past two hundred years, and developed particular breed characteristics by the application of breed standards, which included specific reference to colour. DNA markers at two coat colour loci provide the potential for accurate breed assignation for wild boar, Berkshire and Tamworth breeds, and may also offer the potential to develop simple tools for the verification of the origin of pork products. The use of polymorphisms in genes determining coat colour is used to explore this potential in terms of breed identification for conservation of animal genetic resources, and product traceability for quality assurance.
Conservation and value of local livestock breeds: usefulness of niche products and/or adaptation to specific environments
Authors: Verrier E. , Tixier-Boichard M. , Bernigaud R. , Naves M.
Published: August 2011

Two cases of livestock production involving French local breeds are analysed. The first shows how a high quality product under AOC (Protected Designation of Origin — PDO) has been defined for the Bresse chicken breed, formely kept by fancy breeders. The second shows the role of the local cattle breeds Abondance and Tarentaise in both the use of mountain areas and the development of PDO products. How to consider such values in a public policy dealing with farm animal genetic resources is discussed.
The development of a system of linear measurements to provide an assessment of type and function of beef cattle
Authors: Alderson G.L.H.
Published: August 2011

Linear measurements have been used as indicators of weight in cattle. Withers height has been used most commonly, but measurements of White Park cattle show that it is of limited value. This paper explores alternative measurements and indices, not only to provide a superior guide to weight, but also as indicators of type and function of beef cattle. A complex index is recommended for breed characterisation, while hip width or rump length are shown to be the preferred single measurements for evaluation of individual animals or within-herd groups.
Middle Devonian trilobites from the Mont d’Haurs section in Givet, France, with two new species of Dechenella
Authors: Bignon Arnaud , Crônier Catherine
Published: August 2011

Recent investigation of the historical Mont d’Haurs section near Givet yielded numerous trilobites from Middle Devonian carbonate deposits. The trilobite fauna described in the present paper comprises a number of taxa from the basal Givetian, including two new ones: Dechenella givetensis sp. n.; Dechenella calxensis sp. n.; Dechenella ziegleri Struve, 1992; Goldius cf. capitellum (Archinal, 1994); and Nyterops cf. hollandi van Viersen, 2007a. This fauna confirms the previously recognised taxonomic diversity pattern and the Dechenella and Nyterops Association from the middle Middle Devonian in the Ardenne area.
Tide-induced fine sediment resuspension in the well-mixed Hangzhou Bay, East China Sea, China
Authors: Shi John Z.
Published: August 2011

Hangzhou Bay is a typical funnel-shaped high turbid estuary along a mesotidal coast of the East China Sea. In this paper, field studies are undertaken in an attempt to better understand tide-induced fine sediment transport processes in the Bay. Field observations were made mainly of current velocities (speeds and directions) and suspended sediment concentrations at six different relative depths and two stations in September 1992. Results show that (1) high near-bed suspended sediment concentrations varied from 1·81 to 4·00 kg m−3 during the spring tide and from 1·04 to 8·00 kg m−3 during the neap tide; (2) tide-induced near-bed fine sediment resuspension processes are indicated by several periodic suspended sediment concentration peaks; and (3) a hysteresis effect, or suspension-lag, occurs in suspended sediment concentration and resuspension events. Tide-induced fine sediment processes are mainly responsible for very high concentration suspensions of fine sediments in Hangzhou Bay. The occurrence of the suspension-lag phenomenon is likely to be common in other similar muddy tidal environments.
Multidisciplinary Collaborations in Mid‐Ocean Ridge Research
Authors: Rubin Kennneth H. , Fornari Daniel
Published: August 2011

The global mid‐ocean ridge (MOR) is one of Earth's most fundamental geologic structures. Active volcanic, tectonic, hydrothermal, and biological processes occurring at the MOR affect nearly every attribute of the world's oceans and oceanic crust. For the past quarter century the overarching goal of the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF)–funded multidisciplinary Ridge 2000 program (http://www.ridge2000.org/) and its predecessor, Ridge Interdisciplinary Global Experiments (RIDGE), here collectively called “R2K,” has been to use observations, experiments, and models to answer fundamental questions about oceanic spreading center processes. Since its inception, R2K has worked to develop a holistic understanding of MORs. There are multiple interrelated consequences of oceanic crust generation at MORs, including transfer of material and energy from the mantle to the crust and ocean; impacts on marine ecology; and temporal, spatial, and rate‐dependent interactions between biological and geological processes. Consequently, a diverse yet tightly knit community of collaborating scientists, including geologists, chemists, geophysical modelers, microbiologists, and oceanographers, has developed under R2K programs. This research community has spanned multiple generations of investigative effort, requiring it to confront transformations in communications technology, tools for use and access of data, and attitudes about cooperative approaches to scientific discovery. The tools and approaches R2K has used to enhance cross‐disciplinary understanding of complex problems are adaptable to other multidisciplinary research efforts.
Ocean Drilling Science Plan to Be Released Soon
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: August 2011

The upcoming International Ocean Discovery Program, which is slated to operate from 2013 to 2023 and calls for an internationally funded program focused around four science themes, will pick up right where its predecessor, the Integrated Ocean Drilling Program, ends, explained Kiyoshi Suyehiro, president and chief executive officer of IODP, a convenient acronym that covers both programs. At a 5 April briefing at the 2011 European Geosciences Union General Assembly in Vienna, Austria, he outlined four general themes the new program will address. IODP involves 24 nations and utilizes different ocean drilling platforms that complement each other in drilling in different environments in the oceans.