Sample collection and measurements of phenotypic data of major domestic animals in Qinghai and Gansu Provinces (2018)

The sustainable development of husbandry industry depends on the conservation of local species, in which the protection of genetic resource is the core. The unique natural environment and long-term artificial selection shape the exclusive characteristics in endemic husbandry animals that well adapt to the local environments in Qinghai and Gansu Provinces. Currently, the introduction of commercial breeds leads to the loss of species diversity of local breeds and challenges the protection of genetic resources.
In the present study, extensive field investigations are conducted to assess production performances and species resources, aiming to identify native breeds facing degradations. The achievements of the current study propose the conservative strategies for local domestic animals, which lay the foundation for purification and rejuvenation of endemic species/strains and promote the progression of husbandry industry in Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau and surrounding areas.