This message is from: "ruth bushnell" <fjo...@frontiernet.net>
I understand in Norway, and perhaps other countries as well, that only
Fjords
that have been evaluated and approved can be used as breeding animal.
Looking at the increasing numbers of fjords in the USA that are breeding
and
have not been evaluated, I am wondering if it is time to introduce
something
like that here. Can there be another level of registration for the
evaluated/breeding approved horses? How about those that are produced
outside of this having a limited registration?>
Has this already been discussed and thrown out? Let's hear opinions.
(sign your name)
The current scientific mandate for best breeding strategies is for varied
genetic assortment; called "genetic diversity." Overall breed health is best
maintained through incorporating as many original bloodlines as possible
throughout the history of a breed-- this is especially true of a RARE breed
because there were too few foundation animals and considerable linebreeding
was commonplace in the beginning. (geographical and economical constraints)
Any breeding selection process that promotes narrowed choices is
diametrically opposed to genetic diversity, therefore longterm destructive
to the breed's well being. An extreme example is what the show world has
done to some dog breeds, not to forget that some smaller horse breeds are
also in homozygous distress.
We have a solemn responsibility to the welfare of the Fjord horse breed to
be earnestly and actively searching for latest scientific information
available on how we might best preserve their genome complement. Not by
historical tradition, not by superficial preferences, but by asking for
professional genetic policies which promote breed vigor--such as equal
gender balance, limited stud use/or bloodline, and availing ourselves of
latest university recommendations.
Further restricting our breeding choices would be the very worst thing we
could do for the breed's genetic integrity.
Ruthie, nw mt US
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