An Appropriate Genetic Approach to Endangered Podolian Grey Cattle in the Context of Preserving Biodiversity and Sustainable Conservation of Genetic Resources

Mădălina-Alexandra Davidescu, Claudia Pânzaru, Alexandru Usturoi, Răzvan-Mihail Radu-Rusu and Șteofil Creangă ()
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Mădălina-Alexandra Davidescu: Department of Control, Expertise and Services, Faculty of Food and Animal Sciences, “Ion Ionescu de la Brad” University of Life Sciences, 700489 Iasi, Romania
Claudia Pânzaru: Department of Animal Resources and Technologies, Faculty of Food and Animal Sciences, “Ion Ionescu de la Brad” University of Life Sciences, 700489 Iasi, Romania
Alexandru Usturoi: Department of Animal Resources and Technologies, Faculty of Food and Animal Sciences, “Ion Ionescu de la Brad” University of Life Sciences, 700489 Iasi, Romania
Răzvan-Mihail Radu-Rusu: Department of Animal Resources and Technologies, Faculty of Food and Animal Sciences, “Ion Ionescu de la Brad” University of Life Sciences, 700489 Iasi, Romania
Șteofil Creangă: Department of Control, Expertise and Services, Faculty of Food and Animal Sciences, “Ion Ionescu de la Brad” University of Life Sciences, 700489 Iasi, Romania

Agriculture, 2023, vol. 13, issue 12, 1-24

Abstract: In the context of the general phenomenon of diminishing genetic diversity, especially in cattle, the conservation of endangered species plays a primary role. The disappearance of some animal populations can irreparably affect the biodiversity of genetic resources. Among the most ancient European cattle are breeds that belong to the Podolian group, the history of which is still not well established. The common origin of these breeds is the wild ox ( Bos taurus primigenius ), which has been declared extinct since the 17th century. The purpose of this paper is to highlight and compare the latest studies on the origin, evolution, genetic diversity, and phylogenetic relationships of Podolian cattle, with special emphasis on the endangered Romanian Grey Steppe. The importance of studying these cattle derives from the special biological properties by which they have distinguished themselves over time (adaptability and resistance to diseases, severe climate and habitat conditions, hardiness, and longevity). The bibliographic references reviewed in this study confirm that these breeds are carriers of valuable genes that must be preserved for improvement of other cattle and protection of biodiversity. The information presented represents a valuable tool for efforts to conserve endangered cattle.

Keywords: biodiversity; Bos taurus; cattle production; genetic diversity; grey cattle; phylogeny; Podolian cattle (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q1 Q10 Q11 Q12 Q13 Q14 Q15 Q16 Q17 Q18 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
References: View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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