Print Syllabus

Syllabus

HV0222 Animal breeding and genetics, 15.0 Credits

Husdjurens genetik och avel

Subjects

Animal Science

Education cycle

Bachelor’s level

Advanced study in the main field

First cycle, has less than 60 credits in first-cycle course/s as entry requirements
Bachelor’s level (G1F)

Grading scale

Language

Swedish

Prior knowledge

40 credits

20 credits Animal Science or 20 credits Biology

5 credits statistics

Objectives

The course aims to provide general knowledge of animal breeding applicable to different situations in breeding of domestic animals, and for assessing the consequences of breeding programmes.

Upon completion of the course, the student will be able to:

• perform simple calculations using matrix algebra, and describe their applications in animal breeding,
• set up simple linear models for analysing and interpreting biological data,
• define basic genetic concepts, as well as explain in an easy-to-understand way what the purpose of animal breeding is,
• explain the concept of biological variation, its causes and how it can be described for traits controlled by single genes as well as for traits controlled by many genes and by the environment,
• perform calculations to estimate allele frequencies, genetic variation, heritabilities and genetic correlations, breeding values and degree of inbreeding using different methods,
• discuss strategies for selection and crossbreeding in different environments, and predict genetic progress,
• provide an overall comparison of breeding programmes under different conditions (e.g. animal species, population size) and discuss sustainability aspects, as well as a comparison of measures that can be taken to minimise inbreeding and preserve animal genetic resources.

Content

Subject-related content

The course begins with an overview of animal breeding and its purpose. The course includes the following subject blocks: analysis of variance, population genetics, methods for estimating genetic parameters and breeding values, selection strategies, estimation of genetic progress, and breeding programmes. Throughout the course, there will be discussions on sustainability issues such as the impact of breeding programmes on farmers’ economy, the environment and climate, consumer acceptance and animal ethics issues. Variance components estimation using ANOVA are included and the basics of matrix algebra are introduced for use with simple linear models.

Teaching formats

The course uses various teaching formats to promote student learning and discussions. These include lectures alongside computer and calculation exercises. Students consolidate their knowledge through group discussions.

The course focuses on the following general skills

Problem solving, written and oral communication.

The following components are compulsory

Group discussions.

Grading form

The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.

Formats and requirements for examination

Passed written examination and approved participation in compulsory components.

• If a student has failed an examination, the examiner has the right to issue supplementary assignments. This applies if it is possible and there are grounds to do so.

• The examiner can provide an adapted assessment to students entitled to study support for students with disabilities following a decision by the university. Examiners may also issue an adapted examination or provide an alternative way for the students to take the exam.

• If this syllabus is withdrawn, SLU may introduce transitional provisions for examining students admitted based on this syllabus and who have not yet passed the course.

• For the assessment of an independent project (degree project), the examiner may also allow a student to add supplemental information after the deadline for submission. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Other information

• The right to participate in teaching and/or supervision only applies for the course instance the student was admitted to and registered on.

• If there are special reasons, students are entitled to participate in components with compulsory attendance when the course is given again. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Responsible department

Department of Animal Biosciences