Welfare Science

Farm Animal Genetic Diversity Conservation

Genetic diversity conservation in farm animal breeds provides a welfare and resilience resource, with rare breed conservation protecting adaptive traits that may be critical for future welfare.

Key Facts

Commercial livestock production has reduced genetic diversity through intensive selection
Rare breeds retain genetic variants including disease resistance and climate adaptation traits
Cryopreservation of genetic material provides a back-stop for critically endangered breeds
The FAO monitors global farm animal genetic diversity and coordinates conservation efforts
Rare breed consumer markets can make conservation economically viable for farmers

Welfare Considerations

Genetic erosion in commercial livestock breeds reduces the adaptive capacity to respond to disease, climate change, and novel welfare challenges. Conservation of diverse farm animal genetics preserves options for developing more welfare-appropriate breeds for future production systems.

What You Can Do

Support rare breed conservation by purchasing products from heritage breed producers
Donate to the Rare Breeds Survival Trust to fund genetic conservation work
Advocate for government support for farm animal genetic resource conservation