Conservation of Farm Animal Genetic Resources: A Necessary Tool for Sustainable Rural Livelihood

Abstract

This paper reviews the challenge of conservation of Farm Animal Genetic Resources (AnGR) and the significant role it played in preserving animal biodiversity. There seem to be a complex interaction between AnGR, poverty alleviation and livelihood of rural communities. Livestock serves not only as the source of income but also used in fulfilling socio-cultural obligations in the community. Conscious effort must be made to preserve locally adapted breeds within the production systems that prevail in the various communities of its origin that is, community- based management of indigenous breeds.  The vast majority of livestock genetic resources will continue to be maintained in living herds and flocks controlled mainly by farmers in rural communities especially in developing nations of the world. Locally adapted animal genetic resources also play vital role in the live of rural dwellers hence the need for its conservation.