Genomics, Selection and Morpho-Functional Evaluation

The aim of this course is to provide the knowledge of the genomic basis for the management of populations in animal productions with particular reference to the principles of genomic selection and to the use of the genomic tools used in the reproductive herd management of animals.
Furthermore, the student will be provided with notions relating to the traits of the main bovine, ovine, caprine and swine breeds and to the theory and practice of livestock judging techniques.

The student will have the knowledge of the basic principles for the use of genomic data (genotypes and sequences) in zootechnical practices. The students will be able to apply the genomic selection at the farm and population level. At the farm level, they will be able to develop the applicative process for the use of genomic selection in the herd, with particular reference to ruminants. At the population level, they will be able to compare reproducers and the different international genomic selection schemes.
Furthermore, the student will acquire knowledge in the morphological and functional evaluation of livestock and will be able to recognize the most important external parts of the animals and to identify the main defects, with reference to a standard.