Perspectives of animal breeding science
Animal breeding science, regarding content, organisational and structural perspectives, science and practice
Animal breeding science is an applied science oriented towards the future. Regarding the scientific content, perspectives are especially in the development of breeding strategies to improve functional traits, in the implementation of novel molecular genetic and biotechnological tools and findings, in the conservation of animal genetic diversity, and in providing contributions to satisfy the globally increasing demand for animal products. Classical quantitative-genetic based and novel molecular based approaches are fully complementary. To increase the economic efficiency of animal production through breeding is an essential prerequisite for an internationally competitive German animal breeding industry. Regarding the structural and organisational perspectives, it will be necessary to develop co-operations between scientific groups with complementary profile in the future. Animal breeding science is split in basic research aiming at a better understanding of underlying processes, applied research focusing on solving practical problems, and between the two transfer-oriented research trying to make results of basic research applicable in practical animal breeding. In general, scientists and practical animal breeders need to strengthen the exchange and to develop a better understanding of the needs and obligations of the other partner, respectively. Here, the German Society for Animal Production will continue to play a major role as a mediator between science and practice.