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Moderated conference on Genomics in Food and Agriculture

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A message from David Steane - retired and based in Thailand. Before retirement, I lead an FAO project on 'Conservation and Use of Animal Genetic Resources in Asia' after 4-5 years in Rome HQ. Prior to that, I was Head of Animal Breeding and Genetics for the Meat & Livestock Commission in Britain for over 20 years. At present, I am a Board Director of Rare Breeds International and Honorary Adviser on Genetics and Biodiversity to the Department of Livestock Development, Thailand.

While most genomic efforts appear to be taking place in 'developed' breeds, I believe that a much greater contribution can be made by proper study of local/indigenous breeds. At present, livestock production is under great pressure to provide more product but, at the same time, to reduce its contributions to carbon emissions, water consumption, pollution and its direct competition for human foods. It is expected to do this while coping with climate change and all its consequences on the ability to produce feeds and food preferably in the locations where required. FAO has, after too long a delay, now provided a means to include crucial information alongside the data on breeds. The inclusion of Production Environment Descriptors (PEDs) is very late but nevertheless very welcome as they provide a means of using breed information in a more effective manner. Genome sequencing of such indigenous breeds would enable such data to be analysed alongside various criteria of PEDs to identify sequences which enable breeds to cope with specific conditions. Given such information, the world would be in a much better position to properly and effectively utilize the genetic diversity available and could do so as and when environmental changes such as climate, feeds available etc were better identified. Such a scheme requires global thinking, planning and support and yet most governments could manage to collect suitable samples for sequencing (some would need help in achieving the purity levels needed). The ability to sequence the different species is expanding rapidly and costs are reducing relative to the data obtained. While present efforts appear to concentrate (understandably) on more immediate returns, it is our responsibility to provide the best opportunities for the next generation in the context of food security and health. Genomics can play an important role but only if we have the right information.

David Steane
99 Moo 7 Baan Rong Dua,
Thakwang, SARAPHI,
Chiang Mai 50140,
Thailand
e-mail: desteane (at) loxinfo.co.th

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