Genetic selection and livestock sustainability

Genetic selection is an effective tool to improve sustainability of livestock production and contribute to greenhouse gases mitigation, particularly of enteric methane (CH4) emissions, in accordance with international agreements. Feed efficiency (FE) and CH4 emissions have been postulated as potential selection objectives to achieve mitigation goals and support sustainability. Uruguay has had genetic evaluation systems for three decades and new intensive phenotyping platforms are in place for measuring FE and CH4 in beef cattle and sheep. Recording is carried out in animals of breeds relevant to production (Hereford, Corriedale, Texel, Australian and Dohne Merino) and connected to the genetic evaluation systems. The generated databases are the basis of reference populations for genomic selection. Given that FE and CH4 are difficult-to-measure traits, the implementation of genomic selection is key to accelerate the potentially achievable genetic progress. Recording systems and protocols are described here, as well as the estimated genetic parameters and associations among feed intake, FE, CH4 and productive traits. Knowledge of these associations allows the identification of synergies and antagonisms. This is relevant to optimize genetic improvement programs that contribute to the CH4 mitigation goals, without affecting livestock production, which is key to the economic and social dimensions of livestock sustainability.