Animal Molecular Breeding 2024, Vol.14, No.1, 86-94 http://animalscipublisher.com/index.php/amb 86 Research Report Open Access The Genetic Basis of Flocking Behavior in Sheep: Discoveries from Genome-Wide Association Studies JiaXuan Institute of Life Science, Jiyang College of Zhejiang A&F University, Zhuji, 311800, Zhejiang, China Corresponding email: cherryjxuan@gmail.com Animal Molecular Breeding, 2024, Vol.14, No.1 doi: 10.5376/amb.2024.14.0011 Received: 04 Jan., 2024 Accepted: 15 Feb., 2024 Published: 25 Feb., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Xuan, This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Xuan J., 2024, The genetic basis of flocking behavior in sheep: discoveries from genome-wide association studies, Animal Molecular Breeding, 14(1): 86-94 (doi: 10.5376/amb.2024.14.0011) Abstract This study reviews the genetic basis of flocking behavior in sheep, with a focus on the contributions of genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Through GWAS, this study successfully identified genetic markers and regions closely associated with flocking behavior. These findings not only deepen our understanding of the genetics of sheep behavior but also optimize breeding and management strategies. The study also discusses the types and characteristics of sheep group behaviors, as well as the impact of environmental factors and human interventions on these behaviors. The results are significant in biotechnology and agricultural production, providing a scientific basis for improving the social adaptability and production efficiency of sheep. Looking forward, the research will continue to explore the functional validation of genetic markers and the genetic regulatory mechanisms of behavior, strengthen interdisciplinary cooperation and technological innovation, and promote further development in sheep genetics and agricultural science. Keywords Sheep flocking behavior; Genetic markers; Genome-wide association study (GWAS); Breeding strategies; Behavioral genetics Sheep, as important agricultural animals, have flocking behavior that is not only crucial for their own survival and reproduction but also has profound implications for human agricultural production. Research on sheep flocking behavior dates back decades, with many historical studies attempting to analyze the biological and environmental factors behind these behaviors. With advancements in science and technology, it has become apparent that sheep's social behaviors not only affect their health and welfare but also directly relate to breeding efficiency and the sustainability of agricultural production (Lama et al., 2019). In recent years, rapid developments in genetics have provided new tools and approaches for exploring the genetic basis of sheep flocking behavior, revealing connections between behavioral traits and specific genetic markers. In modern breeding practices, understanding the genetic basis of sheep flocking behavior allows breeders to more precisely select individuals with desirable social traits, thereby enhancing the overall productivity and adaptability of the flock. Moreover, optimizing sheep's social interactions can improve the overall welfare of the flock, reduce stress and conflicts, and increase growth efficiency and production quality (Gootwine, 2020). Therefore, genetics plays an indispensable role in deciphering sheep flocking behavior, offering new perspectives and approaches for modern breeding and agricultural production. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) as a powerful genetic research tool, have been widely used in the field of animal behavioral genetics in recent years. GWAS can identify genetic markers associated with specific traits across the entire genome, offering unprecedented possibilities for understanding the genetic basis of sheep flocking behavior (Mohammadi et al., 2020). Through GWAS, researchers can reveal the complex genetic networks that influence sheep social behavior, further understanding how these behaviors are transmitted and varied through genetic mechanisms. Research into the genetic basis of sheep flocking behavior is not only significant for improving the welfare and production efficiency of sheep but also provides valuable genetic information for understanding social behaviors in other animals and even humans (Shi et al., 2024). Additionally, this research has general scientific value in revealing the genetic mechanisms of complex traits, helping to promote the integration and development of genetics, ethology, and agricultural science.
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