The genotype information of over 1,000 horses reveals that the Franches-Montagnes can be distinguished from other historically introgressed breeds. Furthermore, it has been demonstrated, that this kind of information can also be applied to manage the inbreeding within the population.
Agroscope is supporting a research project conducted by the Vetsuisse Faculty of the University of Bern that aims to develop a test capable of identifying Franches-Montagnes horses that have a specific genetic defect. This defect could be responsible for a potentially incurable metabolic disease.
Alpine pastures provide forage for cattle, storage for CO2, food for pollinators, a habitat for countless plants, and fascinate us with their beauty. The extent to which these services are provided depends on location, climate – and cows.
