Learning objectives
The student will be able to know and understand the genetic problems that involve a) the management of small size animal populations (effective number, inbreeding) and b) the selection of populations for productive, reproductive and functional traits, both with traditional methods and with the application of genomic methods (1st indicator of Dublin); he will then be able to apply this knowledge through the use of specific software, related to genomic databases or to management, applied to real populations (2nd Dublin indicator), both with small size and under selection; will be stimulated to develop autonomy of judgment (3rd Dublin indicator) in relation to the survival and improvement potential of the populations used; must be able to acquire good language ownership (4th indicator of Dublin), also through the use of teaching material in English and by means of discussion with the teacher during the lessons; finally, he will have to be able to apply the acquired knowledge and skills (5th indicator of Dublin) in the practical conditions, in order to deal with the application aspects of the profession competently.
Prerequisites
The basic knowledge acquired after a course in General Livestock Production and Genetic Improvement (SSD AGR / 17) is useful
Course unit content
The course deals with two characteristic aspects of sustainability and innovation in the field of animal production: on the one hand, the management of small size populations and the genetic improvement of functional traits in the selected populations; on the other, the introduction of new selective techniques, linked to the direct evaluation at the genomic level of the breeders.
Full programme
Bibliography
Pagnacco G. (2016): GENETICA ANIMALE Applicazioni zootecniche e veterinarie, Casa editrice Ambrosiana, MI.
Teaching methods
The course is based on lectures, characterized by the projection of slides that are made available to the student on the Elly-Veterinary platform before the beginning of the lessons. During the lessons genetic software will also be used, which will be illustrated by the teacher and applied directly in the classroom.
Assessment methods and criteria
The achievement of the objectives will be assessed through an oral examination at the end of the course. There are no ongoing verification activities, other than those, of an exclusively optional nature, relating to the presentation and discussion of a scientific article, chosen from a range of possibilities offered by the teacher. During the examination, this activity will be taken into consideration with a weight equal to 35% of the final grade. During the final exam, in addition to knowledge of the topics in the program, the student will have to demonstrate, through the development and solution of specific problems, already addressed theoretically and practically in the classroom during the lessons, to have acquired good reasoning and exposure. For students with a diagnosis of specific learning disabilities (DSA), certified according to law 170/2010, specific support methods are provided
Other information
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