Breeds at risk: Definition and measurement of the factors which determine endangerment

The lack of harmonisation between the procedures used by organisations concerned with the conservation of animal genetic resources leads to confusion and an inability to compare results effectively. It inhibits constructive interaction between governmental bodies and NGOs as different systems have been developed independently by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), European Union (EU), Rare Breeds International (RBI), European Association of Animal Production (EAAP), Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST) and other bodies. Most current systems consider only population size, and a model system is proposed which encompasses the other important factors of geographical concentration and genetic erosion. Its merits are discussed, and a standardised system is considered feasible, subject to minor refinements where necessary in some regions. The proposed system fulfils the fundamental requirements for endangered breeds, but is amenable to further refinement to assist effective monitoring of ongoing introgression, both official and illicit, which continues to threaten native breeds which are not classified as endangered. The inevitable lack of uniformity that arises from cultural and structural variations in different countries and regions will continue to present some discrepancies.