Genetic improvement of beef cattle.: A perspective from the Northern Mediterranean countries

Northern Mediterranean countries possess a wide diversity of local beef breeds. According to the FAO database there are around a hundred cattle breeds whose production orientation is meat. Except for a relatively small number (Charolais, Limousin etc.), most are restricted to local areas where they have been used traditionally. They are considered to be particularly well adapted to harsh environmental conditions (Avilena Negra Iberica, Gascone etc.). However, many of them are not yet very well characterized. Until the late eighties, increasing beef production was a major concern in Europe. Growth rates were emphasized as selection objectives in most beef breeding programs. However, the present situation is clearly different. Animal production has reached excess in the EU. The surplus of beef is expected to be about 1.5 million tonnes in 2005, although, more than fifty per cent of beef production comes from dairy and dual-purpose breeds. On the other hand, in the Northern Mediterranean countries there is a growing group of consumers demanding quality beef. In addition, then is also a great degree of concern about maintenance of the environment. Thus, production systems need to accommodate social and environmental requirements. In this context, selection goals in beef breeding programs need to be more comprehensive and oriented to satisfy market demands and production conditions. Maternal traits, weight of the adult individuals and quality of final products will need to be considered.