This module has introduced several of the key concepts that underpin animal breeding and genetics. At completion of this module you should now:
- understand that specific characteristics in animals can be achieved through selective breeding
- understand that the value of the breeding animal is its genes
- understand how animal performance is influenced both by genetic (heritable) and environmental (non-heritable) factors
- understand the factors that influence the rate of genetic improvement
- understand that genetic improvement is permanent, cumulative and a long-term investment for livestock operations.
To learn more about animal breeding and genetics, work through the following modules:
- Module 2 – Breeding Objectives – COMING SOON
- Module 3 – Selection Tools – COMING SOON
- Module 4 – Estimated Breeding Values – COMING SOON
- Module 5 – Using and Understanding Breeding Values – COMING SOON
- Module 6 – DNA Technologies in Beef Breeding – COMING SOON