International Journal of Molecular Zoology 2024, Vol.14, No.1, 44-53 http://animalscipublisher.com/index.php/ijmz 45 locate the key gene regions affecting livestock behavioral traits, which is of great significance in resolving the genetic regulatory mechanisms of traits and guiding livestock genetic improvement and management. This study will explore the current status and prospects of the application of GWAS technology in the genetic study of behavioral traits in livestock by reviewing and analyzing the current research results, aiming to provide valuable information and insights for researchers and production practitioners in the field of animal husbandry. By summarizing the cases of GWAS application in different livestock species, we will evaluate its role and potential in revealing the genetic mechanisms of behavioral traits, promoting livestock genetic improvement and enhancing animal welfare. This study will also discuss the challenges encountered in the application of GWAS for livestock behavioral trait research and the possible directions for future development, which will serve as a reference for subsequent research and practice. 1 Genetic Basis of Behavioral Traits in Domestic Animals 1.1 Definition and classification of behavioral traits Livestock behavioral traits usually refer to the behavioral patterns exhibited by livestock under specific environmental and management conditions, and these traits are largely influenced by genetic factors. Based on the function and expression of behavior, livestock behavioral traits can be classified into several major categories, including stress response, social behavior, reproductive behavior, feeding behavior, and exploratory behavior. Stress response: It reflects the physiological and behavioral responses of animals to environmental stress, and has a direct impact on their growth, production performance, and health status. Social behavior, including social habits, leader follower behavior, competition, and cooperation, affects the harmony and production efficiency within a group. Reproductive behavior: It involves animal mating, pregnancy, and maternal behavior, and has a significant impact on reproductive efficiency and offspring survival rate. Feeding behavior: reflects the animal's food selection, feeding amount, and feeding rhythm, which are directly related to growth efficiency and health status. Exploration behavior: including environmental exploration and curiosity, reflecting the adaptability and welfare status of animals. 1.2 Evidence and research methods for the heritability of behavioral traits In recent years, an increasing number of studies have revealed through genetic methods that behavioral traits in livestock have a clear genetic basis. For example, through paired reproduction experiments, family analysis, and genetic correlation studies, scientists have found significant genetic variation in behavioral traits among different livestock breeds, and the heritability of these traits (i.e. the proportion of genetic factors in trait variation) fluctuates within a certain range, indicating that genetic factors play an important role in the formation of behavioral phenotypes. With the development of molecular biology technology, researchers can directly explore the genetic basis of behavioral traits at the DNA level. Genome-Wide Association Analysis (GWAS) and candidate gene method are two commonly used molecular genetics research methods. GWAS allows scientists to screen for genetic markers related to behavioral traits across the entire genome, while candidate gene methods focus on specific genes known or predicted to be associated with specific behavioral traits. Scientists have identified genetic factors related to behavioral traits in multiple livestock species, providing valuable information for understanding the genetic mechanisms underlying these complex traits. These studies not only enhance the understanding of animal behavioral genetics, but also provide scientific basis for improving livestock breeds, improving production efficiency, and animal welfare. With the continuous progress of molecular genetic technology and the arrival of the big data era, the research on the inheritance of behavioral traits will enter a new stage of development, contributing to the sustainable development of animal husbandry.
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