| This proposal uniquely combines a molecular analysis of biodiversity, socio-economics and geostatistics to address the conservation of sheep and goat genetic resources and rural development in marginal agro systems in Europe. To assist in site conservation and address the relevant socio-economic factors, we will develop a co-ordinated approach to define strategies of genetic management and rural development. We will greatly extend knowledge of sheep and goat genetic diversity at the molecular level, examine many unstudied, local breeds, and identify gene pools to map conservation priorities. We will produce a map of development perspectives to identify areas where sustainable conservation aft valuable populations could succeed. We will overlay the maps of conservation and development priority and estimate the value of this biodiversity to justify economic intervention, and suggest appropriate guidelines and actions. |