PUBLISHED: 29 Jun 2024 at 07: 03
Thai swamp cows will be subjected to a method of whole genome sequencing to maintain their basic genetics, according to the Department of Livestock Development, which stated that the endeavor is in line with King Rama X’s restoration initiatives for this type of animal.
The agency’s captain, Somchuan Ratanamungklanon, revealed on Friday  , the creation of” Research and Development of Thai Swamp Buffalo Using Genomic”, a creative venture consisting of animal science, clinical medicines and agricultural technologies experts from various universities and research agencies.
It aims to use whole-genome scanning to find significant genetic markers in Thai swamp buffaloes and help them build a regional information center and national genetic database.
According to Mr Somchuan, these creatures have several outstanding features, including opposition to strong climates and diseases. They are also known to work hard and are easy to feed.
He added that the strain could also be developed for meat cattle and other consumption products.
” If we can enhance the quality of buffalo meat, skin and milk, we can add more value to those Thai swamp buffaloes”, he said.
For the genome sequencing project, teams of researchers have begun collecting DNA from 680 Thai swamp buffaloes in 20 locations across the country.
Bis now, it has been discovered that buffaloes from various regions have different genetic types, giving them their own distinct identities. Additionally, the study revealed that unless measures are taken to protect and preserve the ancient Thai swamp buffaloes, they could be extinct in ten years.
Sukanya Leethongdee of Mahasarakham University, the faculty’s faculty of veterinary sciences, expressed concern about this, claiming that the university has been working with the local community to promote more science and technology in breeding.
Her team has a preimplantation background to better meet client demand, so she can choose the sex of her newborn buffaloes.
” With this method, we could increase Thai swamp buffalo populations quickly. And it’s crucial to check that they are of a primitive strain, she said, noting that many swamp buffaloes are currently of mixed blood.
According to Mr Somchuan, Thailand has around 1.7 million swamp buffaloes.