Cryopreserved genetic resources to restore and maintain diversity in livestock farming

Abstract

Genetic diversity is essential for maintaining and conserving animal populations. However, it inevitably declines due to genetic drift and selection, making genetic conservation programs necessary. These programs can be in situ, within the animals’ natural environment, or ex situ, outside their original habitat. The latter primarily relies on cryopreserved genetic resources.
The potential uses of ex situ genetic resources are numerous: restoring extinct breeds, preserving genetic diversity within populations, adapting to evolving breeding goals, creating new breeding lines, and supporting scientific research. Whereas using these resources would be justified in a number of cases, their use in livestock breeding remains extremely rare, often due to a lack of knowledge or appropriate recommendations. Various examples will highlight the potential of these genetic resources, particularly in relation to maintaining in situ genetic diversity and adjusting breeding objectives.
Another key issue is the establishment and enrichment of ex situ collections. Their setting must be carefully planned, considering available funding, the needs of current populations and future challenges in livestock breeding. These issues will be discussed on the basis of simulation studies and illustrated by the French National Cryobank, which holds diverse reproductive material from 22 livestock species.
In conclusion, better synergy between ex situ and in situ conservation programs is necessary to optimize the preservation of animal genetic resources.