Fit for purpose – the right animal in the right place

Abstract

The development pathway for tropical livestock production for many years in the twentieth century was to upgrade or replace indigenous stock with exotics of supposedly higher genetic merit. Early indications that this might not be the most appropriate approach were largely ignored. Later there was a reverse movement towards locally developed species and breeds. These were seen as pools of irreplaceable genetic material of unacknowledged merit and value that must not be lost but must be conserved for possible unknown unseen future use. This paper examines the use of various native species and breeds. It goes on to describe some attempts at the introduction of genetically engineered highly productive (at least in their areas of origin) stock. Examples of attempts to produce cross or synthetic breeds are then provided. In a last section the case for the right animal in the right place--and these may be unconventional species and breeds--is provided.

Smallholder experiences with dairy cattle crossbreeding in the tropics: from introduction to impact

“…The higher disease susceptibility of crossbreds is well documented (e.g. Wilson, 2009). The consequential increase in veterinary service demand emphasizes the importance of appropriate (technical) support services (Herrero et al, 2013) and triggers further additional costs.…”

“…Basic inputs were better supplied for in G, probably by ILDP. But the access to adapted animals, a problem inherent to this type of crossbreeding (Wilson, 2009), was more challenging for G farmers. Farmers in G there could 'take off' easier.…”

“…Kahi, 2002), adaptive potential (e.g. Wilson, 2009) and economic impacts (e.g. McDowell et al, 1996).…”

“…Barriers for adoption are numerous and well documented: no clear breeding policy (Haile et al, 2011), political and structural changes (Haile, 2009), inefficient artificial insemination (AI) service (Mekonnen et al, 2010) and lack of performance records (Chebo and Alemayehu, 2012). Still crossbreeding offers encouraging possibilities if appropriate genotypes are used and adequate nutrition and health care are provided (Wilson, 2009).…”

Quality of wild herbaceous legumes and its role in livestock nutrition

“…Their adaptation to fl uctuations in forage quality, especially nitrogen levels, has resulted in the evolution of a nitrogen conservation mechanism, especially in ruminants, through the recycling of scarce nitrogen back into their digestive systems. This has prepared these animals to be fi t for these particular environments (Wilson, 2009). Even though the animals evolved in rangelands with supposedly low nutritive value, in reality these rangelands do contain some plant species with high nutritive value.…”