Animal Molecular Breeding 2024, Vol.14, No.1, 86-94 http://animalscipublisher.com/index.php/amb 91 vary under different environmental conditions, suggesting that environmental factors can influence the expression of genetic predispositions in behavioral phenotypes. For example, the availability of resources, population density, and the presence of external threats can all affect the association between specific genetic markers and flocking behavior. The discovery of this gene-environment interaction is crucial for understanding how sheep adjust their social behavior in complex and changing natural conditions. It indicates that environmental factors must be considered in breeding and sheep management, requiring a comprehensive strategy to optimize the social structure and behavioral performance of the flock. The study of gene-environment interactions not only increases the complexity of research on sheep flocking behavior but also presents new challenges and directions for future research. Exploring how to use genetic information to improve sheep's social behavior under different environmental conditions will be one of the important topics for future research. 4 Applications and Practical Significance 4.1 Impact on breeding strategies The findings from Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) have had a significant impact on sheep breeding programs and selection criteria. By identifying genetic markers associated with flocking behavior, GWAS provides breeders with a new tool for targeted selection and breeding based on genetic information. This marker-assisted selection method not only enhances the social adaptability and group coordination abilities of sheep but also optimizes the overall welfare and productivity of the flock. Moghaddar et al. (2021) utilized priority genetic markers from whole-genome sequencing data for genomic prediction in smaller sheep populations. This study explored the accuracy of genomic predictions in a smaller flock, highlighting how priority genetic markers in GWAS can enhance breeding strategies. It compared different genomic selection methods and assessed their impact on the accuracy of trait prediction in sheep, demonstrating the practical application of GWAS in genomic prediction and selection. García de Marina et al. (2021) showed the role of GWAS in identifying genomic regions associated with sheep milk production traits and their significance for breeding programs. By identifying potential candidate genes and their interactions, the study illustrated how GWAS findings can assist in selecting sheep with desirable production traits, thereby enhancing breeding efficiency. Almasi et al. (2020) demonstrated through a GWAS on weaning traits in Lori-Bakhtiari sheep, identifying significant SNPs and candidate genes associated with these traits. It showcased the potential of GWAS in discovering genetic markers that could be used in selective breeding programs to enhance the growth performance of sheep. In the process of achieving precision breeding, breeders face multiple challenges, including how to accurately identify genetic markers related to desired behavioral traits, and how to optimize these traits while maintaining genetic diversity. To overcome these challenges, breeding programs need to integrate high-throughput genotyping, advanced statistical analysis methods, and long-term breeding practices to effectively utilize beneficial genetic variations. 4.2 Sheep management and welfare The application of GWAS in the genetic study of sheep flocking behavior has profound implications for improving sheep management and welfare. Understanding the genetic basis of flocking behavior can help farm managers better organize flocks, design breeding environments more suitable for animal welfare, reduce conflicts among sheep, and improve the overall health and productivity of the flock. Using the findings from GWAS, genetic selection can be employed to cultivate sheep with better social behavior traits, thereby optimizing the social structure and interaction patterns of the flock. For example, by selecting individuals with stronger social connections and leadership abilities for breeding, a more harmonious and adaptable flock can be developed.
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