The objectives of the course are to provide knowledge about the morphological differences arising from the different selection plans. At the end of the course, the student will have acquired the molecular basis of genetic information, the heritability of traits, the main qualitative genes involved in the expression of phenotypic traits and the main quantitative genes involved in the different production performances. The skills that the student will have acquired at the end of the course will be the following: to evaluate the qualitative and quantitative aspects of the morphological characters; choose among the common molecular biology techniques the one most suitable for genotyping animals according to the main genes responsible for the traits being selected. Through the knowledge acquired and the skills achieved, the student will finally have the essential skills to understand the main differences in production traits with particular attention to the importance of safeguarding biodiversity; to recognize the traits that allow a subject to become a good reproducer; to apply intra-breed selection methods on the basis of specific aptitudes, assuming the responsibility of preserving breed’s health, limiting inbreeding, maintaining correct genetic variability and avoiding damage deriving from extreme selective pressure. DOC acquired: Correctly apply the principles of biosecurity (1.28); Demonstrate an ability of lifelong learning and a commitment to learning and professional development. This includes recording and reflecting on professional experience and taking measures to improve performance and competence (1.13)