On May 30, 2024, the INIA Tamel Aike Regional Center developed the conference “Promoting Aysén Livestock: Strategies to Improve Genetic, Reproductive and Health Efficiency”, within the framework of the INIA Genetic Improvement Program. This event brought together producers, professionals, students and experts from the livestock sector, offering talks and practical visits to strengthen technical knowledge and discuss future projects for progress in this area.
Aysen.- Innovation in Genetics and Health
One of the main axes was the review of innovative strategies. Experts from the Agricultural and Livestock Service (SAG) highlighted the importance of animal identification and genealogical records, announcing the future implementation of subcutaneous microchips for horses and new identification options for sheep, improving traceability and genetic control in Chile.
Dr. Jaime Piñeira from INIA Carillanca emphasized the importance of genetic management to increase livestock productivity. “INIA’s Livestock Genetic Improvement Program has proven to be a crucial tool for improving production systems, allowing the generation of more efficient animals,” he stated.
Marilyn Tapia, researcher at INIA Tamel Aike, presented the application of the ENDOG tool, designed to facilitate producers’ genetic management of their herds, by minimizing inbreeding and maximizing genetic variability, optimizing productivity and sustainability.
Nicolás Valdivieso, veterinary doctor at SAG Aysén, provided an overview of prevalent diseases and control measures in the region, underscoring the importance of improving livestock health for reproductive and productive efficiency.
For his part, Dr. Christian Hepp from INIA Tamel Aike addressed the effects of the thermal environment on bovine rearing and fattening, recommending adjustments in feeding and protection measures against cold and heat; all of this, aimed at understanding and improving animal welfare conditions in livestock systems in Chilean Patagonia.
Potentialities of the INIA Tamel Aike Laboratory
One of the highlights of the day was the visit to the INIA Tamel Aike Genetic Development, Reproduction and Multiplication Unit. Laboratory implemented through the program “Transfer, Modernization and Strengthening of the Sheep Business in the Aysén Region” which, with funds from the Regional Government and its Council, was executed by the Regional Ministerial Secretariat of Agriculture and made possible the implementation of a modern and equipped with cutting-edge technology.
Its equipment includes an NL2 inverter for the production of liquid nitrogen, an automatic straw packaging and sealing machine with ultrasound, an automatic freezer, a thermal transfer printer and AndroVision® software for computerized semen analysis.
“The laboratory equipment will allow advanced analysis of genetic material in aspects of morphology and morphometry, dose calculation and quality control, positioning INIA Tamel Aike as one of the best equipped laboratories in sheep germplasm management nationwide,” he stated. Marilyn Tapia.
Camila Reyes, regional director of INIA Tamel Aike, added: “Being able to have the equipment and implementation of these technologies for the sheep sector allows us to continue supporting producers in the introduction of specialized genetics for the improvement of their flocks, and constitutes the first step to be able to work in goat and bovine genetics in the future. Furthermore, by having high health standards, Chile can position itself as a supplier of high-quality genetics in the international market, therefore, we have to take advantage of this advantage to export frozen semen and embryos, opening new market opportunities.
National Projections
The strategies discussed have a significant impact both locally and nationally. The modernization of the animal identification system and pedigree records can be implemented throughout the country, improving traceability and genetic management in general. Likewise, the incorporation of record analysis tools such as ENDOG enhances the autonomy of producers in the genetic and reproductive management of their herds, improving the productivity and competitiveness of the Chilean livestock sector.
In addition, control and prevention measures in animal health, as well as recommendations on management of the thermal environment, are crucial elements. These measures not only make the transfer of genetic material within and outside the country viable, but are also essential for the correct expression of the genetic potential of selected animals in extreme environments. This is vital for the long-term sustainability of Chilean livestock, guaranteeing efficient livestock production that is resilient to the country’s agro-climatic conditions.
