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Conservation of livestock biodiversity: Improving awareness of the contribution of local breeds to food security and local economies
The overall goal of this undergraduate student project was to raise awareness of the importance of conservation of livestock biodiversity in the developed and developing world. To achieve this goal, students worked with mentors at Iowa State University and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) to compile 30 success stories about the importance of conservation of livestock biodiversity with a particular focus on local breeds. Globally there are diminishing numbers of local livestock breeds due to an influx of improved breeds and lines of livestock. Commercialized breeds generally perform better in modern production systems. However, they are not always adapted to adverse environmental conditions. Scientists realize that there is a need to conserve the genetic resources to utilize the benefits of the local breeds. The specific aim of this project was to highlight successful conservation efforts to use as stories to increase awareness of the roles of local breeds in local economies. To compile the stories, the literature search included utilizing scientists studying the specific livestock, the Domestic Animal Diversity Information System of the FAO, and Web of Science. The current library is host to nine stories from Asia, twelve from Europe, three from North America, four from South America, and three from Africa. The collection also spans species from eleven cattle breeds, one water buffalo breed, six goat breeds, three swine breeds, one camel breed, two sheep breeds, four poultry breeds, and four different stories on Germplasm Banks. Out of the 31 stories, government action was the main driver in 21 conservation efforts. However, collaborations with non-government organizations, local communities and the private sector played roles as well. These stories document the contributions of local breeds to communities. These benefits occur due to adaptations such as lower feed intake, improved capacity to tolerate heat, increased disease resistance, and low input costs when compared to the exotic breeds. Such benefits help increase food security by improving livelihood, production of textile goods, and food production. It is recommended that the library of stories be shared with the public through traditional methods and social media. The more the public understands about livestock conservation, the more research will be conducted about the breeds. The benefits of these breeds’ and their products help increase food security and stimulate local economies throughout the world.
Keywords: Animal Genetic Resources, Conservation, Livestock Biodiversity