Articles

Genetics of the behavioural adaptation in domestic herbivores : prospects for improving welfare in animal production

Abstract

In a first section, we bring evidence that genetic factorsunderlie social behaviour and fear responsivenessin herbivores, and we outline current knowledge abouthow genes control the adaptive behaviour in livestock.The possibility for including behavioural criteria incurrent breeding programmes is also discussed. In asecond section, we discuss problems that may hinderthe genetic evaluation and the application of behaviouraltraits for genetic selection in livestock. They includethe absence of validation in experimental designsfor measuring behavioural abilities, the complexity ofbehavioural responses, and the interactions betweengenetic factors and environmental influences that limitthe consistency in behavioural traits. Some possiblewelfare consequences of current breeding programmesare also considered.

Authors


A. BOISSY

alain.boissy@inra.fr

Affiliation : INRA, Unité de Recherches sur les Herbivores, 63122 Saint Genès Champanelle

Country : France


P. LE NEINDRE

Affiliation : INRA, Direction Générale, 147 rue de l’Université, 75338 Paris Cedex 07

Country : France


P.L. GASTINEL

Affiliation : Institut de l’Elevage, Service Sélection, 149 rue de Bercy, 75595 Paris Cedex 12

Country : France


J. BOUIX

Affiliation : INRA, Station d’Amélioration Génétique des Animaux, BP 27, 31326 Castanet Tolosan

Country : France

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