The relatively small population sizes of the dairy breeds Jersey and Nordic Red Cattle in the Nordic countries pose challenges in using genomic selection to increase genetic progress. A new scientific project aims at improving the methodology using in genomic prediction. Animal health, welfare and production will benefit.

We must use our planet’s resources better if we are to provide food enough for everyone in the future. One of the options is to use plant breeding to achieve higher crop yields. We must also reduce food waste and apply brakes to population growth if we are to ensure sustainable food security. AU scientists are ready to supply much of the knowledge that is needed.

Scientists have discovered a mutation with a built-in dilemma for dairy cattle breeders. The deleted gene sequence has a positive effect on milk yield but causes embryonic death in dairy cattle.

For the past five years new genetic technology has created a revolution in Danish agriculture. Productivity has increased, cows have become healthier, and the technology can be spread to help produce more climate-friendly food for the world’s increasing population.

PhD student Hadi Esfandyari received the award for best poster in animal genetics at 64th Annual Meeting of EAAP of the European Association of Animal Science.

Emissions of harmful methane from cows are to be reduced but with no concurrent loss of milk quantity or quality. Scientists from Aarhus University are exploring the links between milk quality and composition and the genetics and methane emissions of cows.

A new EU-supported network that aims, among other things, to improve measurements of methane emissions from ruminants is co-chaired by a scientist from Aarhus University.

Genomic selection has been successfully implemented in the breeding programme for sows. Now it is turn for slaughter pigs to undergo breeding improvements.

A new booklet published by the Danish Museum of Natural History, written by senior scientist Poul Sørensen from QGG, Aarhus University, covers the subject of hens and chickens in an easily approachable way.