Genetic variance is essential for all populations to survive and is the driving force of both natural and artificial selection.
Genetic variance is essential for all populations to survive and is the driving force of both natural and artificial selection. This project aims to develop a general method that can estimate current genetic variance components in populations under selection. After validation using simulations, we will apply the method in a commercial pig and chicken population under intense artificial selection, which will provide important information for breeding companies to enable a continuous genetic improvement of the sustainability of food production.
The developed method can also be applied in other populations such as plant or wildlife populations and thereby support population management. Participating partners of Breed4Food are Hendrix Genetics (data), Topigs Norsvin (data), CRV (user committee) and Wageningen University & Research.
Contact person: Yvonne Wientjes (