Biodiversity and Conservation Status of Indigenous Livestock of India

Abstract

Biodiversity is a vital resource for sustainable existence on Earth. Livestock genetic diversity is usually discussed in terms of the genetic components of breeds and indigenous animals. Indigenous livestock are recognized as important components of world biodiversity because the genes and gene combinations they carry may be useful to agriculture in the future. Farmers, for centuries, have continuously modified the genetic material available to them by following simple but meticulous breeding schemes from generation to generation. Apart from physical and biological adaptation forced by the environment, the economic, cultural, religious, and survival factors have also played a role in this diversification. Native breeds, which are adapted in diverse habitats and selection strategies, are being lost due to uncontrolled crossbreeding with exotic stocks and indiscriminate crossing of native stocks. Adaptation leads to evolution of unique traits. Domestic animals, which are well-adapted to adverse climatic conditions and disease, are gradually being replaced by crossbreeds whose productivity is declining. Various types of domestic animal genetic resources exist in India. There are 50 breeds of cattle and 19 breeds of buffalo. Among the smaller hoofed animals, 44 breeds of sheep and 34 breeds of goat have been identified. Nine breeds of camel are known, and seven breeds of horses are native to India. There are 19 breeds of domestic fowl, in addition to 10 native breeds of pig, one each of mithun, and yak. The evaluation and characterization of indigenous animals provide guidance for decision-makers for successful conservation of livestock biodiversity.