Review of Crossbreeding Methods in Lamb Production

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TÜRKYILMAZ D.

Türk Tarım - Gıda Bilim ve Teknoloji dergisi, cilt.14, sa.3, ss.921-928, 2026 (TRDizin)

Özet

Optimising lamb production necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between genotype, nutritional inputs, and breeding methodologies in guiding growth performance, carcass traits, and overall productivity. The practice of crossbreeding, utilising heterosis and breed combination, is a reliable method of enhancing average daily gain, feed conversion rates, dressing percentages, and carcass traits. Research findings highlight the positive outcomes of crosses with these advantages further enhanced under high-energy and concentrate-rich feeding regimens. Advancements in reproductive biotechnologies, including in vitro embryo production, multiple ovulation and embryo transfer, and embryo cryopreservation, have significantly contributed to the proliferation of superior genetic lines and the minimisation of generation intervals. The development of genomic selection, marker-assisted breeding, and gene-editing technologies such as CRISPR/Cas9 has enabled advances in traits including prolificacy, carcass traits, wool characteristics, and disease resistance. The integration of genomic data with phenotypic and multi-omics datasets has enhanced selection accuracy, thereby generating opportunities for the development of customized breeding strategies to specific production systems. However, the effective application of these techniques must overcome several limitations. Financial concerns related to genotyping, the limited availability of crossbred reference groups, and the complexity of protecting genetic variation across different breeds and systems are significant difficulties. Also, the relationship between genotype and both nutrition and environmental factors necessitates careful evaluation to ensure the reliable expression of genetic potential in various management practices. A methodical breeding strategy that integrates phenotypic, genomic, and environmental data can lead to significant improvements in genetic gain, enhanced sustainability, and optimized lamb production based on market and welfare standards.