DairyTalk 660: Different Pedigrees, Shared Genetics: Why Traditional Inbreeding Measures Are No Longer Enough - by Helmut Demmelhuber

DairyTalk by Helmut Demmelhuber · Sep 17, 2026 · 20m

This podcast episode is based on a scientific article examining genomic inbreeding and relatedness in Nordic Holstein cattle. The analysis reveals an important discrepancy: conventional pedigree records may suggest that genetic diversity remains relatively stable, while DNA-based measurements detect a much stronger increase in actual relatedness. This raises a practical breeding question—can pedigree information alone still identify the genetic risks created by intensive selection? The article argues that sire selection should consider not only genetic merit, but also the genomic relationship…