Genomic selection is a rutinized selection method in dairy cattle breeding. Genomic selection increases genetic gain mainly by halving the generation interval, which allows faster results at the individual and herd-level. With genomic selection, we can also prevent the spread of genetic diseases and improve the genetic breeding value of the herd. In this paper, we present the importance of genomic selection and the possibilities of its implementation in Slovenian cattle populations based on scientific papers. With the help of a questionnaire, we obtained the opinion of Slovenian breeders on the use of genomic selection, and on the advantages and disadvantages of genomic selection for breeders, breeding organizations, and professional services. The cost of genotyping is the decisive factor for the use of genomic selection in Slovenia. The questionnaire showed that breeders are aware of the possibilities and advantages of genomic selection (e.g. information on monogenic diseases and traits, early selection of the best animals based on genomic breeding values. At the same time, they are aware of the disadvantages and barriers toe wider application of genomic selection (e.g. cost of genotyping , lower reliability of genomic breeding value prediction). In the future, we will need to invest more in educating breeders about the value of genomic prediction and selection, and in communicating genotyping resultsmore widely and clearly.
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