About this course

This course provides a thorough introduction to animal breeding and quantitative genetics, and a brief introduction to plant breeding. Topics which will be covered are recording of phenotypes, kinship and inbreeding, the genetic model, genetic parameters, breeding values, heterosis, breeding plans and practical breeding programs.

Learning outcome

KNOWLEDGE

  • Describe why registrations are important in breeding
  • Describe how relationship and inbreeding are calculated
  • Describe the elements on the genetic model and how breeding values are estimated
  • Describe the factors contributing to genetic changes (Breeder’s Equation)
  • Describe the breeding program for the most common species
  • Describe the difference between animal and plant breeding programs

SKILLS

  • Calculate relationship and inbreeding
  • Estimate genetic parameters and breeding values for simple examples
  • Estimate heterosis and predict genetic change

COMPETENCE

  • Explain the theoretical prerequisite for genetic change
  • Assess the effect of different measures taken for a population

  • Learning activities

    Lectures, mandatory assignments and group work.

  • Teaching support

    Canvas, class discussions, tutoring with assignments, chat in Canvas and responses to questions in class.

  • Syllabus

    Textbook Animal Breeding and Genetics for BSc students. 2015. Kor Oldenbroek and Liesbeth van der Waaij.

    www.wur.nl/en/Research-Results/Research-Institutes/livestock-research/show-wlr/Textbook-Animal-Breeding-and-Genetics-available-in-5-languages.htm

  • Prerequisites

    Basic knowledge of animal breeding (e.g. HFX132), statistics, equivalent to STAT100 and genetics, equivalent to BIO120.

  • Assessment method

    Written exam (3 hours). A-F.

  • About use of AI

  • Examiner scheme

    An examiner assesses the written examination.

  • Mandatory activity

    Group assignment (presentation and report)

  • Teaching hours

    4 lectures per week, plus assignments.

  • Reduction of credits

    50% overlap with BIO248

  • Admission requirements

    Special requirements in Science