Genomic selection is changing how we breed plants and animals. It helps make predictions about traits much more accurately than older methods. Let's break down how this works.
Genomic selection uses many high-density markers called single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs).
Imagine using 50,000 markers to look at the genetic makeup of a plant or animal. This gives a clear picture of what’s happening in its genes.
In the past, breeders only had a few markers to work with. With more markers, they can make better choices and estimates about the genetics.
Studies show that genomic selection can make predictions about traits 20-30% better than older methods.
For example, in crops and livestock, using genomic data can lead to accuracy scores between 0.70 and 0.90.
In dairy cows, for example, predictions about how much milk they will produce improved from 0.45 to 0.80. That’s a big increase!
With genomic information available when plants or animals are just starting to grow, breeders can make decisions sooner.
This is important because it speeds up the breeding process. In corn, for example, decisions can be made when plants are seedlings. This can save about 1 to 2 years compared to waiting until plants are fully grown.
Genomic selection helps breeders better understand how closely related different plants or animals are.
This is essential for making smart breeding choices. When using family history, the average understanding of relationships might be around 0.20. But with genomic data, this can improve to values like 0.60 to 0.80.
Regular breeding usually focuses on basic genetic traits. But genomic selection can also look at more complex interactions, like how different genes work together.
This broader view can explain up to 60% of the differences in some traits, making predictions even better.
Genomic selection helps breeders use their time and resources more effectively. By spotting and removing poor performers early, breeders can maximize their gains.
This means more plants or animals can be assessed at the same time, leading to better results with less effort.
In short, genomic selection offers huge improvements in breeding predictions. It does this through:
These benefits are why more breeders are using genomic selection, helping create better plants and animals faster than ever before.
Genomic selection is changing how we breed plants and animals. It helps make predictions about traits much more accurately than older methods. Let's break down how this works.
Genomic selection uses many high-density markers called single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs).
Imagine using 50,000 markers to look at the genetic makeup of a plant or animal. This gives a clear picture of what’s happening in its genes.
In the past, breeders only had a few markers to work with. With more markers, they can make better choices and estimates about the genetics.
Studies show that genomic selection can make predictions about traits 20-30% better than older methods.
For example, in crops and livestock, using genomic data can lead to accuracy scores between 0.70 and 0.90.
In dairy cows, for example, predictions about how much milk they will produce improved from 0.45 to 0.80. That’s a big increase!
With genomic information available when plants or animals are just starting to grow, breeders can make decisions sooner.
This is important because it speeds up the breeding process. In corn, for example, decisions can be made when plants are seedlings. This can save about 1 to 2 years compared to waiting until plants are fully grown.
Genomic selection helps breeders better understand how closely related different plants or animals are.
This is essential for making smart breeding choices. When using family history, the average understanding of relationships might be around 0.20. But with genomic data, this can improve to values like 0.60 to 0.80.
Regular breeding usually focuses on basic genetic traits. But genomic selection can also look at more complex interactions, like how different genes work together.
This broader view can explain up to 60% of the differences in some traits, making predictions even better.
Genomic selection helps breeders use their time and resources more effectively. By spotting and removing poor performers early, breeders can maximize their gains.
This means more plants or animals can be assessed at the same time, leading to better results with less effort.
In short, genomic selection offers huge improvements in breeding predictions. It does this through:
These benefits are why more breeders are using genomic selection, helping create better plants and animals faster than ever before.