Managing the genetic diversity of animal populations using cryobanks: optimizing the constitution of ex situ collection?

To compensate for the erosion of genetic variability taking place in local breeds as well as in large breeds under selection, many countries have set up cryopreserved collections. Currently, there are as many sampling strategies as there are cryobanks. The aim of our study was to examine some parameters for optimizing the constitution of a gene bank. ResultsWe simulated different breeding scenarios of animal populations (i.e. selection or conservation) and examined the impact of using cryopreserved collections according to (i) the size and age of collections or (ii) the sampling strategy to set up these collections. The age of cryopreserved resources was the predominant factor of use in populations under selection, where the use of recently collected sires was favored. For populations under conservation, older reproductive material becomes highly relevant. Using a large number of old individuals enabled better management of matings and helped to slow down the increase in inbreeding on the long term, while the use of a lower number of old individuals enabled some genetic progress to be maintained. Since a gene bank needs to address the needs of all types of populations, continuous enrichment of collections appeared to be a relevant option. In addition, the use of OCS can help to efficiently mobilize ex situ genetic resources in animal breeding programs. ConclusionsCryopreserved genetic resources are an invaluable help in the management of domestic populations. Relevant recommendations for the management of cryopreserved collections can be made according to breeding programs.