The XV Iberian Congress of Animal Genetic Resources has concluded this Saturday at the University of the Balearic Islands (UIB), after three days of presentations and debates focused on the study, conservation and genetic improvement of native breeds.
During the meeting, researchers, technical staff, breeders' associations and professionals from the livestock sector gathered, who have shared knowledge and experiences around the protection of animal genetic diversity, according to what the Conselleria of Agriculture, Fisheries and Natural Environment detailed in a press release.
Throughout the sessions, aspects such as breed characterization, conservation and improvement programs, reproduction techniques and the sustainability of livestock production systems were addressed.
The scientific program has also included numerous works directly linked to the Balearic Islands, with studies on the Mallorcan black pig, the Mallorcan and Menorcan cattle breeds, the Mallorcan goat, the Ibiza hen, the Balearic horse breeds, four sheep breeds and different dog breeds.
Research on specific racial groupings has also been made known, such as the queen cow and the black pig of Formentera and Eivissa.
The closing day was specially oriented toward the valorization of products obtained from native breeds, with presentations dedicated to marketing, quality certifications, the use of wool and the opportunities that open up for producers.
According to the Conselleria, these topics have made it possible to analyze the link between the conservation of livestock genetic heritage and the economic viability of farms that maintain these breeds.
The congress has served to bring together scientific works and experiences from different territories of the Iberian Peninsula, with the aim of continuing to advance in the knowledge and protection of animal genetic resources.