genetic diversity
Breeders of PRE horses turned to science-based management to help reveal and address genetic issues linked to inbreeding. | Photo: iStock
There are “superstars” in every breed, from the famous stallions everyone wants a foal by to the high-achieving mares whose bloodlines become the new breeding fashion. But when all the breeders flock to the same few horses, a genetic nightmare can result. A high-quality breed can begin to suffer the consequences of inbreeding—mainly, genetic defects and a greater risk of certain diseases.

To combat this problem, breeders of one Spanish horse have turned to science-based management. The Pura Raza Español (PRE) horse, also known as the Andalusian in English-speaking countries, now benefits from DNA analyses across the globe through the work of a centralized team in Europe. As a result, they’ve not only revealed but also addressed genetic issues.

“The use of genomic data gives more reliable estimates of global genetic diversity and assures the application of a successful genomic selection programs,” said Marina Solé, a postdoctoral researcher at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences in Uppsala and a member of the Spanish MERAGEM research group. “Advanced genomic technologies provide long‐term genetic gains while also mitigating inbreeding increases, especially in small subpopulations.”

PRE History

Spanish breeders developed the PRE hundreds of years ago, and it became recognized as an official breed in the 16th century. Appreciated for its classical mix of powerful musculature and elegance, the breed gained popularity outside Spain, and the country authorized horse exports in the 1960s. However, these exports led to subpopulations with smaller gene pools, and in Spain the risk of inbreeding increased as breeders showed strong preferences for specific bloodlines

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