Agricultural techniques used to increase production of cattle, sheep, and other major species have actually threatened the future genetic diversity of livestock populations, particularly in the Third World. This volume explores the importance of animal genetic diversity and presents a blueprint for national and international efforts to conserve animal genetic resources. It also evaluates genetic techniques useful in conservation programs and provides specific recommendations for establishing data bases and conducting research.

• Front Matter
• Executive Summary
• 1 The Need to Conserve Livestock Genetic Resources
• 2 Essential Conservation Considerations
• 3 Measurement and Use of Genetic Variation
• 4 New Technology and Its Impact on Conservation
• 5 National Programs
• 6 International Programs and a Global Mechanism
• References
• Appendix A: Global Status of Livestock and Poultry Species
• Appendix B: Embryo Transfer: An Assessment of the Risks of Disease Transmission
• Appendix C: Animal Genetic Resources: Sperm
• Glossary
• Abbreviations
• Authors
• Index