The characterization and conservation of genetic resources guarantee the maintenance of biodiversity and are a fundamental pillar of food quality and safety. The quantification of the variability of this diversity, through the control of yields, as well as the systematic collection of data that affect traits of interest in different production systems, are fundamental for the development of improvement programs. The preservation of native breeds adapted to their specific production conditions also contributes to the sustainability of livestock systems. On the other hand, genetic improvement of the different livestock species and breeds is very important in order to improve their productive characteristics and adaptation to both the farming environment and the social demand for products (in quantity and quality). This involves the identification and selection of genes that positively affect livestock production, disease resistance or the improvement of the quality of the final product, using tools based on polygenic and genomic selection, massive analysis and bioinformatics. This information can be further implemented in breeding programs based on classical and molecular methods.

This line integrates two sublines:

• Characterization and conservation of animal genetic resources.
• Animal genetic improvement.