Creole cattle in Bolivia - Phenotypic and genetic characterization combined with conservation and breeding programs

Creole native populations are characterized by their good resistance to parasites and prolonged drought and especially by their good adaptation to utilizing low quality feed. Their high adaptive value suggests that these populations underwent natural selection for half a millennium. Information on genetic diversity and risk status is still lacking for many Creole cattle breeds in America. This project will use SNP microarrays and microsatellites to assess genetic diversity and inbreeding levels. The genetic characterization of these populations will assist in identifying important productive and reproductive traits. It will be also the basis for developing breeding plans and implementing improvement programs that will consider both conservation and sustainable use of the breed, thereby contributing to improved national food security.

The specific objectives of this research are:

• Phenotypic characterization of native populations using information on conformation, color, production/reproduction and information extracted from photos.
• Genetic characterization using genetic markers (microsatellites and SNP).
• Determine the genetic distances of Creole cattle populations allowing breed identification of native populations.
• Propose a breeding plan and breeding goals adapted to the characteristics of local production systems.
• Develop conservation and breeding strategies in order to repopulate the Creole cattle.