ICAR Wiki - User contributions [en]

Section 20: Sniffer SOP

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Cvangemert: /* Analox */ added new website for HerdLab system

Section 20: Methane measuring methods

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Cvangemert: changed name to sniffers

Section 20: Methane measuring methods

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Cvangemert: Added ZELP sense to table

Section 20: Wearables

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Cvangemert: /* ZELP Sense */

Section 20: Methane measuring methods

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Cvangemert: Added section 20 to all methane measurement subsections and edited links

Wearables

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#REDIRECT [[Section 20: Wearables]]

Section 20: Wearables

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Portable Accumulation Chamber

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#REDIRECT [[Section 20: Portable Accumulation Chamber]]

Section 20: Portable Accumulation Chamber

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Cvangemert: Cvangemert moved page Portable Accumulation Chamber to Section 20: Portable Accumulation Chamber

'''NOTE: This version of Section 20 has been approved by the working group's Chair. Please be aware that further revisions may occur before final review and approval by the Board and ICAR members per the [[Approval of Page Process]].'''

== Introduction ==
In Australia and New Zealand an alternative method was developed for the short-term measurement of Methane Production Rate (MPR) of sheep using Portable Accumulation Chambers (PAC) during 1 hour without leading discomfort to the animals. Similarly to RC, CH4 emissions recorded in PAC include gases from flatulence in addition to eructed and expired CH4, but only during 1 hour. For a detailed comparison of the PAC and respiration chamber methods see Jonker et al. (2018)<ref name=":0">Jonker, A., Hickey, S.M., Rowe, S.J., Janssen, P.H., Shackell, G., Elmes, S., Bain, W.E., Wing, J., Greer, G.J., Bryson, B., MacLean, S., Dodds, K.G., Pinares-Patiño, C.S., Young, E.A., Knowler, K. Pickering, N.K., and McEwan, J.C. 2018. Genetic parameters of methane emissions determined using portable accumulation chambers in lambs and ewes grazing pasture and genetic correlations with emissions determined in respiration chambers. J. Anim. Sci. 96:3031-3042. doi: 10.1093/jas/sky187.</ref>. Currently PACs are mostly used for small ruminants, but there are trials underway for using larger cabins for large ruminants. In general the same protocols described here for small ruminants are also applied in the trials with large ruminants.

For information about other traits recorded in sheep and goats please visit section [[Section 21 – Meat, reproduction and maternal trait in sheep and goats|21]] and [[Section 23 – Wool Sheep Recording|23]], a new section on feed intake measurements is planned. Often the feed intake measurements are combined with the methane measurements using PACs.

== Eagle 2 ==
[[File:Eagle 2 with tube.png|right|frameless|282x282px]]
Eagle 2 Gas analyser [https://www.rkiinstruments.com/ RKI Instruments], this device is often used to measure the following from the PACs:
* CH4 (methane) concentration in ppm ''(ensure scale set to ppm by pushing the “range-shift" button until ppm comes up.''

* CO2 (carbon dioxide) concentration in %

* O2 (oxygen) concentration in %

=== Calibration ===
Before the Eagle 2 can be used it needs to be calibrated, this requires specific gasses:

''Methane (CH4) Calibration Gas''

Methane Packaged in Steel Cylinders; Capacity: 103 Liters (3,6 Ft3)

40-004-(B) -(A) 100 ppm in Air 100ppm of Methane in Air

40-003-(B) -(A) 1.000 ppm in Air 1.000ppm of Methane in Air

''Specialty mix''

Calibration mix D cylinder (1.300 l), 5% CO2, 16% O2, 5.000ppm CH4 (or some other specified mix)

The eagle 2 needs PALL Life Sciences Versapor® -1200 Membrane 25MM 1,2μm 100/Pk, circular paper filters for probe. The RKI part number for the filter bowl is RKI 80-0211RK Water Trap (bowl type) with 1641 fittings with pleated paper filter. Particle filter RKI 33-1200RK. This can be washed and thoroughly dried for re-use if required until replacement is possible.

== Daily start up ==
[[File:Eagle 2 probe open.png|thumb|248x248px|Probe unscrewed; conical filter in the middle; membrane paper filter closest to base.]]
Before starting the Eagle check the filters within the probe. These are in the circular region of the probe. Check the conical filter is dry and clean by unscrewing the middle section. Change the circular membrane paper filter at the start of each day & as needed throughout the day. Membrane paper filter is seated at the base of the probe closest to the black rubber tubing.

Reassemble the probe making sure all parts are sitting correctly. Turn machine on to warm up, for at least 20 minutes to allow the Eagle 2 to return to 0ppm Methane, 20,9% O2 and 0% CO2 before validations are carried out. If necessary, push demand zero by holding down the AIR demand button to zero the Eagle 2. This measurement is the “Fresh Air” measurement and should not be made within a building containing animals, rather it should be carried out in fresh air.

The Eagle 2 is checked against standard gases of known mix concentrations at the beginning and end of each day of recordings, using the 100ppm and 1.000ppm Methane in air gas bottles. All readings are recorded daily. Screw the regulator into the desired gas bottle. Insert the probe into the tube that is on the end of the regulator and open fully the tap that is on the regulator, allow reading to settle and record measurements on worksheet. The readings should be close to (within 20% of):
{| class="wikitable"
|
|'''Air'''
|'''100ppm Methane mix'''
|'''1.000ppm Methane mix'''
|-
|'''Methane (CH4)'''
|0ppm
|100ppm
|1.000ppm
|-
|'''O2'''
|20,9%
|20,9%
|20,9%
|-
|'''CO2'''
|0%
|0%
|0%
|}
If the readings shift too far from these levels, try again or the Eagle 2 may require servicing, recalibration, or sensor replacement.

=== Using the specialty mix ===
Open gas security valve. Open the valve on top of the gas bottle and turn the valve on and allow a little amount of gas to pass through the hose that is attached to the gas bottle, insert the probe into the hose (making sure the eagle is reading CH4 = O, O2=20,9, & CO2= 0.

Another way to carry this operation out is fill a 3 Litre Tedlar Bag with the specialty gas. Once filled (don’t over fill the plastic bag) turn off the valve & remove gas pipe, place the probe from the eagle onto Tedlar bag, open valve and allow the eagle to settle & record the reading.

Record final readings of gas concentrations, usually the readings are 5.000 ppm methane and approximately 16% O2 and 4,9% CO2.

If these gas levels are not reached, remove probe, and allow meter to stand in fresh air for a few minutes, the display should show fresh air readings (20,9% O2, 0% CO2 and 0ppm Methane) if not demand zero using the “Air – Yes” button and try to measure the specialty mix gas a second time. If the Eagle 2 continues to read unacceptable gas levels the Eagle 2 may need to be serviced, recalibrated or need a sensor replacement. This Eagle 2 should not be used to take measurements, a different Eagle2 analyser must be used.

After known gas checks are completed allow the machine to return to a 0 ppm Methane before turning it off, this can take up to 20mins. You may have to push the demand zero button ("Air- Yes" button)

These same gas calibration checks are to be done at the end of the day just prior to shutting the Eagle down in the same order as detailed above in daily start up procedures. These calibration values are recorded and if outside given parameters the machines are checked or recalibrated. The calibration data is not used in the calculations because the recorded data is rescaled as the first step before use in genetic evaluations.

== Protocols on experimental farms ==

=== [https://www.inia.es/en-en/aboutus/whoweare/Pages/Home.aspx INIA] - Uruguay - meat sheep ===
Below a protocol for using PACs to measure meat sheep from INIA in Uruguay.

The animal is placed in a sealed chamber (860-880 litres; for large animals/breeds, a larger chamber should be considered) for a known period of time, between 40 to 60 minutes, after at least three weeks of constant feeding in terms of quantity and type of feed. More than one measure (2 to 3) per animal is recommended, with a period no shorter than 7 days between measurements. The traits to evaluate would be the concentration of Oxygen, Carbon dioxide and Methane. On the measurement day with the animal placed into the chamber, CH4, CO2, and O2 are recorded using a portable multi-gas detector (in parallel with a background estimation) every ten or twenty minutes. Air temperature and pressure will be also registered for the calculation of methane emission at standardized conditions. Multi-gas detector calibration, bump tests and chambers leak tests should be performed routinely. Sealing of the chamber is mandatory to guarantee isolation, which is highly recommended. Transparent chambers can be used to reduce stress, accounting for animal welfare. Records of body weight will be necessary to estimate actual gas volume in the chamber and to estimate methane intensity. Also, dry matter intake on the measurement day and previous days will be required to assess methane yield. When possible, animals can be off feed from one hour before the estimate, if extra handling is necessary and records of eaten feed and hour of last meal are available, they can stay on feed until the estimate (Robinson et al., 2020<ref>Robinson DL, Dominik S, Donaldson AJ, Oddy VH. 2020. Repeatabilities, heritabilities and correlations of methane and feed intake of sheep in respiration and portable chambers. Animal Production Science 60, 880-892</ref>)

Data from each batch of methane measurements can be then transformed considering the body weight of the animal, the time between measures and start of measurement, the gas concentration inside and outside of the chamber, the temperature and atmospheric pressure, following the procedure described by Jonker et al. (2018)<ref name=":0" />.

== Protocols on commercial farms ==

=== Norway - meat sheep ===
Below a protocol for using PACs from Norway for measuring meat sheep.

To use PAC on commercial farms, they are set in a truck. The truck is easier than a trailer to drive on icy roads, there is a possibility for heating, for cleaning and for carrying wastewater. 10 chambers are used, so that gases are measured in lots of 10 animals at a time. A hand-held Eagle2 instrument is used to capture accumulated 50 min gas emissions / consumption following a measurement protocol developed in New Zealand (Jonker et al., 2020).<ref>Jonker, A., Hickey, S.M., McEwan, J.C., and Waghorn G. (2020). Guidelines for estimating methane emissions from individual ruminants using: GreenFeed, 'sniffers', hand-held laser detector and portable accumulation chambers. Ministry for Primary Industries, Wellington, New Zealand. <nowiki>https://www.mpi.govt.nz/resources-and-forms/publications/</nowiki></ref> The sheep are placed in the PACs, the measurements last 50 minutes. Sheep are either fed fresh grass or grass silage and are required to be off feed for at least one and less than four hours prior to entering the chamber and are in addition weighed prior to measurement. Fifty-minute CH4 concentration is converted to CH4 g/hr.

The computation of CH4, CO2 and O2 are realised as follows:

CH4 / CO2 emission and O2 consumption are measured in gram/hour.

Conversion from weight to litres:

* Litres CH4/hour = ppm CH4/hour * (1.146 - Weight * 1,01) / 1.000.000
* Litres CO2/hour = ppm CO2/hour * (1.146 - Weight * 1,01) / 100
* Litres O2/hour = ppm O2/hour * (1.146 - Weight * 1,01) / 100

1,01 is the density of a sheep; 1.146 is the air volume (in litre) in the PAC.

Converting mBar to kPa:

* gram_CH4/hour = Litres CH4/hour * (0,1 * Air Pressure, mBar) * 16,043 / (8,3145 * (Temp in °C + 273,15)
* gram_CO2/hour = Litres CO2/hour * (0,1 * Air Pressure, mBar) * 44,01 / (8,3145 * ( Temp in °C + 273,15)
* gram_O2/hour = Litres O2/hour * (0,1 * Air_Pressure, mBar) * 31,998 / (8,3145 * (Temp in °C + 273,15)

16,043 is the molar mass (g) of methane; 44,01 is the molar mass (g) of carbon dioxide; 31,998 is the molar mass (g) of oxygen; 8,3145 is the gas constant; 273,15 is to convert the temperature from °C to Kelvin.

=== New Zealand - sheep ===
Below a protocol used in New Zealand for sheep.

The sheep will be placed in the PAC for approximately 50 minutes and gas emissions will be measured at three time points using an Eagle 2 gas analyser (RKI instruments). Animals are weighed on the day of measurement and are grazed on known pasture covers for three days prior to measurement to allow determination of estimated dry matter intakes. Animals are handled as quietly as possible and measured once, using a random method of allocation to lots of 12 by sire.

* ''Lots'' are groups of animals allocated to be measured through the set of chambers at the same time, a lot consists of 12 animals. For example, if there were a total of 96 animals to be measured in one day eight separate lots of 12 animals per lot would be randomly allocated.

* ''Allocations'' are completed using sire to allocate animals randomly to lots. Different allocations are carried out for each round of measurements ensuring animals are measured randomly across lots and days. e.g., a cohort of 156 animals would be split into 7 lots of 12 animals for the first day and 6 lots the following day.

==== Pre-Measurement ====
Animals to be measured through PAC are run as a single group along with their cohorts that will not be measured in PAC chambers. One week prior to measurement animals are drafted from the main group and run separately on pasture with desired feed levels. Three days prior to measurement all allocated animals are moved into a paddock of known area, pasture cover is above 2000kg/ha, paddock selection will depend on group size. On the day of measurement, an estimated pasture reading is obtained from the farmer and recorded.

===== Setting up the trailer =====
The chambers should be operated out of direct sunlight where possible to avoid heating up excessively while sheep are inside. If the chamber temperature gets above 30 °C let the animal out. The trailer should be as level as possible.
[[File:PAC chamber door open.png|thumb|191x191px|PAC chamber door opened]]

==== Day of Measurements ====
On the first day of measurements, animals are brought into yards and drafted into lots. The animals being measured on the first day are weighed and weights recorded and drafted into lots of 12, with only the morning lots (lots 1 – 3/4) animals to be measured retained off feed, with the balance for the afternoon lots put back on feed until approximately one hour before the afternoon session of measurements is due to start. The animals to be measured on day 2 are returned to the paddock. Day 2 animals are removed from feed on the day of their measurements, and pasture cover is re-estimated after they exit.

==== Measurements ====
[[File:PAC gas tab open.png|thumb|243x243px|Gas valve opened]]
Immediately prior to starting measurements, the air temperature and pressure outside the chambers should be recorded. Animals are located close to the chambers (trailer) set up and pushed into the chamber when the door to the chamber is open. The animals enters the chambers; the door is fastened closed. Upon the animal entering the chamber check that the pressure gauge on top of the chamber changes to reflect that a seal has been obtained. The first reading is taken immediately after the animals enter by inserting the Eagle 2 probe into the gas valve on the top of the chamber and opening the valve. After 30 seconds the reading should have stabilized and is recorded using a data recording on the XR. The values should be: 0ppm CH4; 20,9% O; 0% CO2.

Make sure the gas valve is closed before the probe is removed. The order of all animals and their IDs are recorded, and the “0” time measurements are taken for each animal in order of loading.

The methane value for these time measurements should be zero''',''' if they are not zero it indicates that the chambers have not been suitably cleaned out between lots. If they are below this value, measurements can continue, but additional time should be allowed for the next cleaning period and a couple of chambers checked before any animals are loaded.

Animals are left undisturbed for 25 minutes from the first reading before a second measurement is taken. Ensure sufficient time is allowed for fresh air to enter the Eagle between measurements (3 – 4 minutes) when starting up the Eagle or leave the Eagle running. Make sure the Eagle is zero before starting second & third measurements.

The methane values for the second measurement should be at least 200ppm. If the measurement is between 100ppm and 200ppm, there may be an issue which should be checked and noted. To determine if the measurement was done correctly check the following things:

* Check that the chambers are sealed properly, and confirm reading, noting on the XR that it was a true measurement.
* Check the door is closed and water is still in the water traps.
* Check Eagle 2 is working properly
* Check the animals have been fed to the required levels if there is more than two in the lot at this level.

25 minutes after the second reading, a third reading is taken. Unless the CO2 was above 2,75% at the second reading, then the third reading would be at the 40-minute mark. If the second measurement is above 2% CO2, the animal should be monitored at the 35-minute mark. If levels are above 5%, release the animal. If more than 2 or 3 in a lot move to 35-minute rounds, see early release of animals below.

After the third reading 50 minutes from the start, the door is unfastened, and the animal is released from the chamber. Before releasing animals inform any people in the surrounding area that the animals are being released, and check that the pathway is clear for animals to return to the pens. The chamber is then washed down with the water blaster.

==== Early release of animals ====
Any animals that have a CO2 reading greater than 2% at their second reading need to be monitored and have an extra measurement made 10 minutes afterwards. If CO2 rises above 5% at any point during the measurement time, the animal is immediately released.

If an animal does not settle in the first 10 minutes, or their behaviour is affecting others, the animal is released early, and a note is made on the PAC chamber recording sheet.

If an animal is showing visible agitation (hyperventilation or panting in the chamber) a final measurement is made, and the animal is released. An increase in frequency above 50 breaths per minute can be considered as panting but be aware that the other animals may become stressed when left on their own. Instead of releasing the stressed animal, consider opening the door a bit.

If an animal is released early a note on reason must be made.

==== Measurements for each Lot ====
Sheep spend approximately 50 minutes in PAC, while gas measurements are being taken.

* LWt = Live weight recorded before PAC measurements
* Air temperature is recorded in degrees celcius
* Air pressure is recorded in hectopascals (hPA); Note 1hPa = 1mb

Gas measurements are recorded at start, midpoint and for each individual recorded on XR. CH4 in ppm and CO2 and O2 in %. Calculate litres/day (l/d) for each time period (1 = start to midpoint; 2 = midpoint to end, 3 = start to end).

For time period 3:

* CH4 l/d = (End CH4 – Start CH4) / (End Time – Start Time) * (cVol - LWt * 1,01) / 1.000.000

* CO2 l/d = (End CO2 – Start CO2) / (End Time – Start Time) * (cVol - LWt * 1,01) / 100

* O2 l/d = = (Start O2 – End O2) / (End Time – Start Time) * (cVol - LWt * 1,01) / 100

Vol = 827 litres for mark 1 chambers, 853 for mark 2 chambers, and 1.146 for Mark 3 chambers. The volume and mark number of the chambers are written on them. The type of chambers used should be recorded on the daily recording sheet.

Convert L/d to grams/d:

Similar to computing g/hour.

* CH4 g/d = CH4 l/d * (Pressure(hPa) * 0,1) / (8,3145 * (Temperature(0C) + 273,15)) * 16,043
* CO2 g/d = CO2 l/d * (Pressure(hPa) * 0,1) / (8,3145 * (Temperature(0C) + 273,15)) * 44,01
* O2 g/d = O2 l/d * (Pressure(hPa) * 0,1) / (8,3145 * (Temperature(0C) + 273,15)) * 32

16,043 is the molar mass (g) of methane; 44,01 is the molar mass (g) of carbon dioxide; 31,998 is the molar mass (g) of oxygen; 8,3145 is the gas constant; 273,15 is to convert the temperature from °C to Kelvin.

=== Cleaning of the chambers ===
[[File:Gas vent and hose inside chamber.png|left|thumb|209x209px|Drainage system and gas vent inside PAC]]
[[File:PAc waste gas extraction tab open.png|thumb|201x201px|Waste gas extraction system; tab opened]]

==== Between groups ====
The chambers have a gas extraction vacuum fan that is used to remove all residual gases from each chamber. This has to be done prior to the entry of the next animal to be measured.

To operate the waste gas extraction fan, turn on the power once the final reading has been taken & open the door on the first chamber. Let the animal out of chamber, leave the door open and turn on red tap at top of chamber. Leave on for a minimum of 30 seconds and make sure tap is closed when loading the next lot.

In addition to removing the gases the chamber is also hosed out with a water blaster in preparation for the next animal. There is a drainage system at the rear of the chamber where water and waste drains from, plus any large amounts of waste are removed with a small spade.

==== After completing the trials for the day ====
Wash down and clean all chambers, leave the gas taps open to prevent condensation collecting in the tap. Complete three gas validations as done at the beginning of the day and record results. All chambers are checked as being empty.

== Trait definition for meat sheep ==
GHG emissions can be expressed as raw outputs, in grams per day, or in relation to feed intake or body weight. Different indicators have been proposed and used to express GHG emissions.

''Ratio indicators:''

* CH4 or CO2 yields express gas emissions in relation to dry matter intake: CH4yield = CH4 / DMI
* CH4 or CO2 intensities express gas emissions in relation to live weight: CH4intensity = CH4 / liveweight

''Residual CH4:''

Similarly to residual feed intake, residual methane emissions (RME) has been proposed as an indicator of methane emissions.

In meat sheep, residual methane can be obtained as the residual from the following equation:

* Daily methane = µ + a * BW0.75 + b * DMI + CG + RME (from Smith et al., 2021<ref>Smith et al., 2021. Effect of divergence in residual methane emissions on feed intake and efficiency, growth and carcass performance, and indices of rumen fermentation and methane emissions in finishing beef cattle. JAS Volume 99, Issue 11, November 2021, skab275 <nowiki>https://doi.org/10.1093/jas/skab275</nowiki></ref>)

BW and DMI are body weight and dry matter intake, respectively, and have to be recorded over the same period as gas emissions. CG is the contemporary group.

== Genetic evaluations ==
To decrease GHG emissions, selection programmes can use different models for the genetic analyses. The table below shows the models used by different analyses of GHG emissions criteria.

''List of fixed and random effects used to analyse GHG emissions criteria.''
{| class="wikitable"
|Trait name
|Species (DS, MS, DG)1
|Fixed effects
|Random effects
|Notes
|-
|Gram CH4 / CO2 /O2 per hour
|MS
|Flock, age, lot (pen / trial), sex, birth type, dam age, live weight (fixed regression), age at measurement (fixed regression) birthdate deviation from average, rearing rank, age of dam
|Animal
|
|}
1Species are defined as Dairy Sheep (DS), Meat Sheep (MS) and Dairy Goat (DG).

=== Genetic parameters ===
Genetic parameters obtained from the previously described protocols and using models presented in the above table are given in the below table.

''Genetic parameters for GHG emissions traits estimated in small ruminants.''
{| class="wikitable"
|Traits
|Species (DS, MS, DG)1
|Heritability
|Genetic standard deviation
|Coefficient of variation (%)
|Notes
|-
|CH4 (gram per hour)
|MS (adult ewes)
|0,18
|
|
|SMARTER, Jette Jakobsen, NSG (Jakobsen et al., 2022)<ref name=":1">Jakobsen J.H., Blichfelct T., Linneflaatten L.-B., Gloersen M.O., Wallin L.E., McEwan J.C. (2022). Methane emission has low genetic correlations to lamb growth traits in Norwegian White sheep. Proc. of WCGALP 12, Rotterdam, the Netherlands, 3-8 July 2022.</ref>
|-
|CO2 (gram per hour)
|MS (adult ewes)
|0,31
|
|
|SMARTER, Jette Jakobsen, NSG (Jakobsen et al., 2022) <ref name=":1" />
|-
|CH4 (gram per day)
|MS (wool)
|0,23
|
|
|Marques et al., 2022<ref name=":2">Marques C.B, De Barbieri I., Velazco J., Navajas E.A. and Ciappesoni G (2022). Genetic parameters for feed efficiency, gas emissions, oxygen consumption and wool traits in Australian Merino. Proc. of WCGALP 12, Rotterdam, the Netherlands, 3-8 July 2022.</ref>
|-
|CO2 (gram per day)
|MS (wool)
|0,27
|
|
|Marques et al., 2022<ref name=":2" />
|-
|O2 (gram per day)
|MS (wool)
|0,26
|
|
|Marques et al., 2022<ref name=":2" />
|-
|CH4 g/d

|MS
|0,19 (0,05)
|
|
|Jonker et al., 2018<ref name=":0" />
|-
|CO2 g/d
|MS
|0,19 (0,05)
|
|
|Jonker et al., 2018<ref name=":0" />
|-
|CH4 / (CH4 + CO2) (mol/mol)
|MS
|0,24 (0,05)
|
|
|Jonker et al., 2018<ref name=":0" />

|}
1Species are defined as Dairy Sheep (DS), Meat Sheep (MS) and Dairy Goat (DG). <references />

Respiration chamber

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Section 20: Respiration chamber

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Laser Methane Detector

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Section 20: Laser Methane Detector

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Section 20: Methane measuring methods

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Greenfeed SOP

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Section 20: Greenfeed SOP

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Section 20: Methane measuring methods

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Sniffer SOP

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Section 20: Sniffer SOP

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Section 20: Methane measuring methods

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Cvangemert:

Section 20: Sniffer SOP

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Section 20: Sniffer SOP

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Cvangemert: Introduction and Q&A

Section 20: Wearables

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Cvangemert: /* SF6 */ introduction added GRA info

Section 20: Greenfeed SOP

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Cvangemert: /* Introduction */

Section 20: Activities

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<center>
<big>
NOTE: This version of Section 20 has been approved by the working group's Chair. Please be aware that further revisions may occur before final review and approval by the Board and ICAR members per the [[Approval of Page Process]].

</big>
</center>
== Global Methane Genetics ==
[[File:GMG label.png|right|frameless|300x300px]]
The Global Methane Genetics (GMG) initiative is a global program to accelerate genetic progress in methane emission in ruminants in the Global North and South. This WUR-ABG coordinated initiative is funded by the [https://www.globalmethanehub.org/ Global Methane Hub] and the [https://www.bezosearthfund.org/ Bezos Earth Fund,] both based on philanthropic funds to support methane mitigation and prevent global warming. If you have questions about the [https://www.wur.nl/en/project/global-methane-genetics-initiative.htm GMG initiative] you can send an email to [Mailto:gmg@wur.nl gmg@wur.nl], contact Roel Veerkamp: [Mailto:roel.veerkamp@wur.nl roel.veerkamp@wur.nl] or Birgit Gredler-Grandl: [Mailto:birgit.gredler-grandl@wur.nl birgit.gredler-grandl@wur.nl].

The initiative holds the following projects:

=== '''Dairy Cattle''' ===
We can look to nature to reduce CH4 emissions and use genetic diversity to provide solutions. Genetic improvement, based on identifying animals with genetic predisposition for lower CH4 output and using them to breed for the next generations, is a reliable, cost-effective, and permanent method for transforming livestock's impact on the environment. Breeding programs in dairy cattle are run within breeds and across countries. Therefore, the program will accelerate genetic progress by focusing on four major dairy breeds and organizations and countries involved in those breeds. Additionally, the program will acquire considerable leverage through investments in these countries. If you have questions about the dairy cattle section you can contact Birgit Gredler-Grandl: [Mailto:birgit.gredler-grandl@wur.nl birgit.gredler-grandl@wur.nl].

==== ''Holstein breed'' ====
The largest data collection has been for the Holstein breed, but there is a lack of standardization and protocols in terms of equipment and its utilization (farm level, data processing, data sharing agreements, genetic evaluations, and data collections). Governments and breeding organizations in Denmark and the Netherlands will collaborate and collect methane and genotypes on more than 20,000 Holstein cows for the GMG database. Also, Poland and Italy team up to collect data for the GMG database, and their aim is also to collect more than 20,000 Holstein animals and develop genetic evaluations across a wide range of systems.

===== Denmark-The Netherlands =====
This collaboration between Aarhus University and Wageningen Livestock Research has five main goals. The contact person for questions about this project is Trine Villumsen: [Mailto:tmv@qgg.au.dk tmv@qgg.au.dk].

* Setting up Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for measuring methane using sniffers
* Setting up international protocols to measure methane on commercial farms
* Develop software tools to automate the processing of data into a phenotype
* Combine historical data in both countries for genetic evaluations
* Measure enteric methane in 20.000 new cows.

===== Poland-Italy =====
This collaboration has the following main goals. The contact person for questions about this project is Raffaella Finocchiaro [Mailto:raffaellafinocchiaro@anafibj.it raffaellafinocchiaro@anafibj.it].

* Measure enteric methane in 20.000 new cows.

==== ''Jersey breed'' ====
Currently, due to the limited data available, the Jersey dairy breed does not have breeding values for methane (CH4) mitigation. The goal of the program is to collect methane genotypes in Canada and Denmark and share this information with the GMG database. The aim is to develop breeding values that will be distributed through the World Jersey Cattle Bureau organization and national Jersey organizations in Australia, Canada, Switzerland, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and New Zealand. If you have questions about the Jersey breed section you can contact Rasmus Bak Stephansen [Mailto:Rasmus.stephansen@qgg.au.dk rasmus.stephansen@qgg.au.dk]

==== ''Brown Swiss breed'' ====
The Brown Swiss (BS) breed faces significant challenges due to its small population size, an divers environments the animals are kept. A collaboration between Germany, Switzerland, and Austria to phenotype enough animals is a prerequisite for utilizing the genetic potential of reducing methane emission of the BS breed. In addition to a population of 250 cows recorded with Greenfeed, and 1250 with the sniffer, progress will be accelerated by recording an additional 3,360 cows with sniffers. If you have questions about the Brown Swiss breed section you can contact Elena Frenken: [Mailto:Fe@fbf-forschung.de fe@fbf-forschung.de].

==== ''Red breeds'' ====
The red breeds are important for crossbreeding in many countries around the world. The project aims to share and collect CH4 data from Red Dairy Cattle (RDC) breeds (in the Nordic countries, Canada, and the United Kingdom (UK)) and share it with the Global Methane Genetics (GMG) Hub. Together, they will set up a shared genetic evaluation for bulls used for crossbreeding in many more countries. If you have questions about the Red breed section you can contact Elisenda Rius-Vilarrasa: [Mailto:Elisenda.Rius-Vilarrasa@vxa.se. Elisenda.Rius-Vilarrasa@vxa.se.]

=== '''Beef Cattle''' ===

==== ''Bluegrass (global beef)'' ====
All industries world-wide have been challenged with reducing emissions and beef is no exception. Genetic selection and specifically genomic selection have been identified as key tools to help meet this challenge. Methane emissions are not a local problem, but a global one and several major beef producing countries who exchange genetic material have, are, and will be collecting methane phenotypes for the purpose of genomic prediction. Individually (including those in Australia), these datasets will be limited in their genomic prediction accuracy. The BLUEGRASS alliance will bring together the key players globally, who collectively have solicited key seed funding from the Global Methane Hub. By sharing data and resources, the development of necessary reference populations will be accelerated. Locally or globally, success in the beef genetics industry has been a model of ‘co-opetition’. Breeders, although competitors, pool resources to build tools that can be used by all to compete with one another. This BLUEGRASS alliance is no different. A global alliance will come together to address this challenge, with or without Australia. Having Australia lead and ignite the alliance with MDC co-funding will create opportunities to direct this global initiative and provide first mover advantages for Australian breeders.

The program is focused on building genomic reference datasets for the main beef breeds in the collaborating countries. The animals to be recorded will be intensively recorded for other production traits, and genotyped, outside this project itself. In each country, trial or research breeding values will be produced and delivered to industry during the life of the project – enabling genetic selection against methane to get underway, and the data will underpin the ability to genomically screen the entire populations of the breeds involved in the respective countries i.e. all seedstock and commercial animals. The data collected will likely assist development of genomic selection against methane in other countries. The accelerated genetic selection and the commercial animal screening will enable real impact to reduce methane from beef cattle. If you have questions about the bluegrass project specifically, you can contact Steve Miller, [Mailto:Steve.miller@une.edu.au steve.miller@une.edu.au]

===== Number of phenotypes =====
This project will phenotype methane traits in beef cattle populations in the US, Australia, the UK, Ireland, and New Zealand. Around 18.500 phenotypes will be collected over all years and countries. It is estimated that around 7.000 phenotypes will be collected in Australia, around 1.600 in New Zealand, around 800 in the UK, around 2.000 in Ireland and around 7.00 in the USA.
===== Breeds and traits included =====
All countries included in the Bluegrass project have different breeds and different target traits included in their measurements, besides the methane phenotypes.

Australia will focus on Angus and Hereford seedstock with a research population of Angus, Wagyu, Charolais, Shorthorn and Brahman being a target as well. For the seedstock they will focus on seedstock traits plus methane measurements using PAC measures. For the research populations on seedstock traits plus feed intake, carcass as well as methane measurements with PAC.

For New Zealand priority is the progeny test herds. These are mostly Angus, Hereford and their crosses, including a diallel cross design. Some Angus x Simmental. Complete requirements with seedstock herds of Angus and Hereford. Focus is on the following: progeny test, seedstock traits, conception date (via fetal aging) from natural mate at yearling (then re-breeding), carcass grading on steers, feed intake on heifers, rumen microbiome on steers and heifers, seedstock traits from seedstock herds

For the UK focus lies on Angus and Hereford sired animals, both pedigree and crossbred (including from dairy dams) and they focus on liveweights.

For Ireland they include multi-breed/crossbreed. 30% Charolais and Limousin sired from Continental type suckler dams, 30% Holstein-Friesian and 40% beef (mostly Angus) cross dairy. They will focus on feed intake, liveweight and carcass data.

The USA will be measuring Angus focused on seedstock traits from seedstock herds.

==== ''US beef'' ====
This project will accelerate genetic selection for reduced methane emissions from U.S. and Canadian beef cattle, through phenotyping and genotyping the 18 most influential beef breeds in North America.

The primary activities of this project will center on phenotyping and genetic evaluation of the Germplasm Evaluation (GPE) herd, a large, multibreed resource population at the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) in Nebraska, USA. This herd is structured to represent the genetic diversity of the 18 most influential beef breeds in the U.S.. These 18 breeds are: Angus, Red Angus, Hereford, South Devon, Shorthorn, Beefmaster, Brangus, Brahman, Santa Gertrudis, Braunvieh, ChiAngus, Charolais, Gelbvieh, Limousin, Maine-Anjou, Salers, Simmental, Tarentaise.

Recording of methane phenotypes will occur using multiple approaches to not only maximize the number of phenotypes collected, but to also offer a comparison between methodologies within a U.S. beef production system. Based on these findings and in coordination with other GMG project teams, standard operating procedures for methane phenotyping of beef cattle will be developed and integrated into the [https://beefimprovement.org/resource-center/bif-guidelines/ Guidelines for Uniform Beef Improvement Programs] supporting the evolution of these approaches into standard practice and routine evaluation in any beef breeding system. If you have questions about the US beef project specifically, you can contact Matthew Spangler, mspangler2@unl.edu.

===== Main goals =====
* Recording methane phenotypes from at least 5,500 multi-breed genotyped beef cattle and openly sharing to the GMG database and the public domain.
* Development and publication of uniform guidelines for both methane phenotyping in beef cattle systems and the integration of methane phenotypes into beef genetic evaluations, through the BIF Guidelines wiki.
* Dissemination and routine updating of genetic parameter and genomic marker effects critical for the development of genetic selection tools and deployment of methane-reducing breeding programs.

=== '''Sheep''' ===
This project focusses on recording methane phenotypes on animals in various populations, e.g. Merino, Texel, Dohne, Corriedale, maternal and terminal. In each case, those animals will be recorded for a range of other production, health, product quality and welfare traits (the exact suite of traits varies between countries). This ensures that it will be possible to determine the genetic relationships between methane traits and the other traits included in current and future selection indexes and breeding programs – meaning that breeders will be able to make informed decisions on any trade-offs between methane and other traits. In total around 16.600 methane phenotypes will be collected over all years and countries. It is estimated that around 7.500 methane phenotypes will be collected in Australia, 3.000 in Uruguay, 4.000 in New Zealand, 1.200 in the UK and 1.000 in the UK. If you have questions about the sheep project specifically, you can contact Daniel Brown, [Mailto:dbrown2@une.edu.au dbrown2@une.edu.au]
==== Main goals ====
* Phenotyping and reference populations. Fast tracked phenotyping and genotyping up to 16,000 records of methane traits across the key countries to facilitate accurate international evaluation of animals (Table 2).
* Genetic evaluation and models. Breeding values based on international genomic evaluation models to share the benefits of the established reference populations.
* Proxies. Development and validation of new phenotyping methods to expedite genetic progress.
* Breeding Programs. Whole farm system models to incorporate methane into breeding objectives in a balanced way and indexes to facilitate selection of breeding candidates.
* Education and adoption. Stakeholder engagement campaign and international development to ensure world-wide impact.

=== '''Africa''' ===
This project focused on three regions of Africa (Eastern, Western and Southern Africa). It will will leverage and accelerate on-going early research on GHG in these regions, strongly build capacity and team up with researchers to record CH4, other economic productive traits and use the records to implement breeding strategies to reduce CH4 emission while simultaneously enhancing productivity, food security and employment opportunities in the dairy and beef cattle farming systems; The source of livelihood for many poorly resourced farmers.

Tapping into the existing breeding program infrastructure for improved productivity for dairy cattle in the three regions of Africa, this project will result in overall program that will accelerate genetic progress through focus on phenotyping, genotyping and the use of information from the microbiome in the genetic selection of animals in the smallholder dairy system. The overall impact will be better mitigation of negative effects of climate change and more productive cows. Through selection programs based on the index developed with the phenotypic and genomic information from this project.

The major activities include the direct CH4 measurements on about 1.655 tropical cattle using [[Greenfeed SOP|GreenFeed]] and the use of [[Laser Methane Detector|LMD]] in smallholder farmers. Genotypic information and phenotypes captured routinely on major important productive traits that influence profitability, income and livelihood of farmers on 1.619 animals. Data sets will be linked to a larger existing data on 9.000 cows with phenotypic and genotypic information from existing projects. If you have questions about the Africa project specifically, you can contact Raphael Mrode, [Mailto:Raphael.mrode@sruc.ac.uk raphael.mrode@sruc.ac.uk]

==== Main goals ====

* Methane measurements available on 1.655 tropical cows.
* Tissue samples and genotypes available on 1.619 tropical cows.
* Genetic relationship between dairy cows in Western and Eastern Africa estimated.
* Multi-trait genomic analysis of dairy data and methane in Eastern Africa.
* Incorporate existing data on over 9.000 cows from existing research projects to enhance genomic prediction.
* Computation and the roll out of final selection index or sub-indexes developed for improved efficiency - reduced CH4 emission, lower maintenance requirement and increased milk production.

=== '''Latin America''' ===
The aim of this project is to accelerate the reduction of enteric methane emissions in beef cattle in Latin America through genetic selection in key breeds relevant to Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, and Mexico. The focus will be on phenotyping methane emissions and genotyping animals linked to existing genetic improvement programs. Reference populations for genomic selection will be the basis to improve the estimation of genetic merit and select for lower emission. The link with ongoing genetic improvement programs provides data on other economically relevant production traits, thus making it possible to estimate genetic correlations and optimize methane emission reductions with a minimum impact on livestock productivity. This approach minimizes negative impacts on food production while preserving economic, social, and environmental sustainability of beef cattle farming. This collaborative project between national agricultural research institutes (NARI) is supported by breeders’ associations and other key stakeholders. Public-private partnerships and collaborative efforts will scale genetic evaluation for methane emissions as well as the use of lower methane emission genetics on commercial farms. Phenotypic and genomic data from approximately 7.000 animals will be made globally available. In synergy with other projects, it will be possible to increase the size of reference populations leading to an even greater impact on methane emissions mitigation. If you have questions about the Latin America project specifically, you can contact Elly Navajas, [Mailto:Enavajas@inia.org.uy enavajas@inia.org.uy]

For developing methane emission phenotyping platforms and reference populations, it is essential to upgrade methane emission recording equipment as well as standardize and coordinate the measurement of animals. Standardized protocols will be developed in collaboration with ICAR, and the criteria for selecting animals to be measured and genotyped will be established by the research team, including technicians from breeder associations. A critical component of the project involves genetic analyses, such as estimating genetic parameters for methane emission-related traits, validating breeding values in additional populations, and evaluating the impact of selecting for reduced methane emissions. Scientific collaboration will be fostered with other beef cattle projects, focusing on areas such as expertise exchange. Communication strategies will be implemented to engage stakeholders, including breeders, artificial insemination centers, policymakers, and other private stakeholders. Dialogue with teams managing greenhouse gas (GHG) inventories and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) will also be enhanced. These activities require active collaboration among countries and stakeholders in Latin America to achieve successful outcomes.

==== Main goals ====

* A Latin American collaborative network for accelerating genetic improvement for methane emissions reduction is established by NARIs, universities, breeder societies, and private stakeholders engaged in genetic evaluation programs across South America and Mexico.
* Methane emission phenotyping platforms are implemented, enabling data collection across key beef cattle breeds, targeting 7.000 methane emission phenotypes and genotypes of animals linked to genetic evaluations.
* Genomic-enhanced estimated breeding values for methane emissions will be available to breeders: based on pure-breed and multi-breed reference populations enhanced through collaboration and data sharing across beef cattle projects within the GMG initiative.
* The economic and environmental impact of breeding strategies to reduce methane emissions is assessed, to identify the most promising breeding strategies to accelerate methane emission reduction. The development of breeding objectives combining methane emission reduction with production goals will support policy and incentives for breeders and farmers to overcome adoption barriers and integrate the results into national GHG inventories.

=== '''Microbiome''' ===
The micro-HUB project will establish a reference population with metagenome and genotype data, and create a genomic evaluation system that can be used to select the parents of the next generation with microbiome profiles that produce less enteric methane while maintaining genetic progress in profit and health. The genomic evaluation system will be widely open, will target most relevant breeds and production systems. Furthermore, a large global microbiome network will be established to collect existing data and knowledge and ensure knowledge transfer.

This project will start with metagenome and genomic data on 5.430 individuals from the core project partners, we will explore the opportunity to extend and expand our reference population to other countries with suitable data. By combining national data sets with genotypes, microbiome and methane information, we aim to create the largest rumen microbiome reference population globally. We aim to enlarge the reference population by more than 20.000 microbiome sequenced dairy and beef cattle as well as sheep from the Global Methane Genetics (GMG) program. From this, we will facilitate the delivery of genomic breeding values that can be used in global breeding programs to select for a microbiome composition with lower emissions and reduce the abundance of methanogenic pathways in the rumen microbiome of future generations of cattle and sheep. The project partners cover beef, dairy and sheep populations and creates an opportunity to identify a core microbiome (or set of cores) that can be used as a reference for nation-based breeding programs. The project will closely connect to the other projects within the Global Methane Program, to facilitate microbiome sampling, sequencing and genomic analysis. If you have questions about the microbiome project specifically, you can contact Oscar Gonzalez-Recio, [Mailto:Oscar.gonzalezrecio@ed.ac.uk oscar.gonzalezrecio@ed.ac.uk]

==== Activities ====
To enlarge the national database partners will obtain additional samples from animals with methane and genotype data from different breeds and production systems within the GMG phenotyping program (dairy and beef cattle). The inclusion of samples from external partners will be encouraged. Partners (also external) will be provided with instruction to collect data and sample rumen microbiome. The micro-Hub will provide stewardship for GMG partners regarding sampling, storage and shipping, as well as bioinformatic analysis. Rumen metagenome sequencing will be centralized in as fewer labs as possible (ideally only one).

Reference populations from partners will be combined, covering a broad range of breeds and productions systems and different geographical regions. Format of the databases will be unified. The combined dataset will be used for the microbiome genomic evaluations. The reference database will be updated with additional data coming from external partners.

We will develop the capabilities to estimate the genomic breeding value for microbiome composition for any genotyped animal in similar productive conditions as those represented in our reference population. The goal is to propose recommendations based on own experience to include estimated genomic breeding values for rumen microbiome profile in breeding programs.

The project will contribute to the activities organized within Global Methane Genetics and the ICAR Feed&Gas working group in building a microbiome network to exchange knowledge, harmonize guidelines and develop protocols. All data generated within the project will be made available through the Global Methane Genetics database. The project will collaborate with the database development to develop microbiome sharing requirements and specifications.

==== Main goals ====

* Joint reference metagenome compiled.
* Microbiome genomic evaluations.
* Release of SNP coefficients for international genomic evaluations for microbiome compositions.
* Network building and establishment of platform for rumen metagenome data.

=== '''Working Group meetings''' ===

The six working groups as described above meet two times a year. The GMG working group meetings are aimed to share updates about the GMG projects and discuss gaps, needs and bottlenecks in the field.

==== Dairy Cattle ====
15 May 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:250515 GMG meeting Dairy Working Group.pdf|here.]]

27 October 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20251027 GMG Working group Dairy meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Sheep ====
20 May 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20250520 Meeting GMG Working group sheep.pdf|here.]]

11 November 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20251111 Sheep Working Group GMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

==== Microbiome ====
23 May 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:202505 Global Meeting Genetics Microbiome working group meeting.pdf|here.]]

27 November 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20251127 GMG Microbiome WG presentation.pdf|here.]]

==== Latin America ====
5 June 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:202506 Presentation GMG Working Group Latin America meeting.pdf|here.]]

14 November 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20251114 Latin America GMG Work group meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Africa ====
23 May 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20250523 GMG Working group Africa meeting.pdf|here.]]

7 November 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20251107 Africa Workgroup GMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

==== Beef ====
17 June 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:202506 GMG Working group Beef meeting.pdf|here.]]

11 November 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20251106 GMG Working group Beef meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Asia ====
1 July 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20250701 AsiaGMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

25 November 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:GMG Asia From data to impact.pdf|here]], [[:File:Asia 20251105.pdf|here]], [[:File:2511 GMG Asia MethaneMethods.pdf|here]] and [[:File:ILRI LMD Exp 2025.pdf|here]].

==== Webinars ====
On the 22th of May 2025 there was a webinar for all GMG project participants on effective records in the database, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:250515 GMG meeting Dairy Working Group.pdf|here.]]

== DAFNE ==
Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences at the University of Tuscia. Their main purpose is to collect primary emissions data from sniffers and GF to have emissions factors related to the species, breed, physiological state and diet management. They are engaged with ANAFIBJ and sharing data related to Holstein cattle with them for genetic evaluations. Currently they are running trials with sheep and buffalo.

=== Sheep ===
For this trial they are comparing 2 grazing methods using 2 groups of Sopravissana sheep, reared at the facility.

# Rotational, 18 sheep. Turns every 4 days on strip paddocks. 18 paddocks in total; 6 heads on 3 strip paddocks per turn of grazing. After 24 days the sheep are back to the first three strips.
# Continuous, 18 sheep. Continuous grazing on same paddock. 3 paddocks in total; 6 heads per paddock.

Subgroups for both group A and B (6 heads) are randomly arranged every day. The 18 strip paddocks are the same total size as the three continuous paddocks. They have the same number of heads grazing and the same live weight load.

Both groups are balanced for BW, receive the same hay in quantity and quality with ad libitum access and spend the same time at pasture. Daily sampling of the hay and residual per group is done, weekly sub samples of hay and residual are analyzed. In parallel fresh grass is sampled and analyzed to represent the 2 grazing methods.

The GreenFeed is located in the barn, at 9AM this barn is closed for group A and opens for group B and this switches every day. The GreenFeed is the only place they can get concentrates. Nutritional information for this concentrate can be found [[:File:Nutritional table sheep DAFHNE.docx|here]]. Amount of food and cup drops can be found here.

Trial started end of March 2025 and will last 1.5 months. They are using the GF adapted for small ruminants.

=== Buffalo ===
This is a continuous trial which will last 4 months per supplement tested. First they monitor the buffalo for 4 weeks without supplement as a control diet and then there will be an 8 week experimental period with the supplement diet. During the entire period the buffalo are confined to the barn.

The buffalo are separated in two groups, in adjacent pens. One group has access to a milking robot, with the MooLogger from [[Sniffer SOP|Tecnosens.]] The other pen has a conventional milking system and the GreenFeed is placed facing this pen.

All buffaloes are fed the same concentrates. Nutritional information for this concentrate can be found [[:File:Nutritional table Buffalo DAFHNE.docx|here]]. Amount of food and cup drops can be found here. The buffalo’s in the GF group get the concentrates from the GF and about 1 kg of concentrates during milking operations. The buffalo’s in the sniffer group only get concentrates from the milking robot, which is about 2 kg/head/day.

To account for the emissions recorded individually at different times, they compare the emissions data aggregated on a daily basis. They are using the GF adapted for large ruminants with horns

== GasToGrass ==
The aim of this project is to develop new breeding solutions for the industry by finding ways to identify animals with lower environmental impact, which can then be selected as part of genetic improvement programs. This project will contribute with new strategies to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, in sheep production systems. You can find more information on the [https://era-susan.eu/content/grasstogas-grass-gas-strategies-mitigate-ghg-emissions-pasture-based-sheep-systems website]

== MethaBreed ==
[[File:P-2025-1-15-2 FBF Logo MethaBreed Logo 01 4C-01 klein.png|thumb|170x170px]]
The MethaBreed project aims to improve the sustainability of dairy production by developing innovative breeding strategies for dairy cows that simultaneously reduce methane emissions, enhance feed efficiency, and support animal health. A large-scale longitudinal study is being conducted in commercial dairy herds. Using advanced technologies, individual cow traits are recorded across entire lactations and multiple lactation cycles. Data collection includes continuous monitoring of methane emissions using sniffers, feed intake (using CFIT: Cattle Feed Intake System), body weight (using CFIT and scales), and key health parameters. A particular focus lies on the role of the rumen microbiome in methane production. A central goal of MethaBreed is the development of a new breeding value for methane emissions, enabling the selection of animals with lower environmental impact. These data will be integrated with pedigree and genomic information to allow precise breeding decisions. At the same time, the existing breeding value for feed efficiency will be further refined. The outcomes of the project are expected to make a significant contribution towards more climate-friendly dairy production. In the long term, standardized breeding values will be provided, enabling breeding organizations and farmers to actively select for healthier, more efficient, and more sustainable dairy cows. For more information you can visit the following websites from the partners: [https://www.uni-giessen.de/de/fbz/fb09/institute/ith/ag-koenig/forschung/laufend/methabreed University Giessen], [https://www.fbf-forschung.de/aktuelles/methabreed-neues-forschungsprojekt-zur-reduzierung.html FBF], [https://livestock-functional-microbiology.uni-hohenheim.de/en/research-projects#jfmulticontent_c401477-2 University of Hohenheim.] Further partners are [https://www.vit.de/ vit] and [https://www.uni-kiel.de/de/aef/fakultaet/institute/tierzucht-tierhaltung University Kiel]. The project is funded by the German Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Regional Identity on the basis of a resolution of the German Bundestag. The project management is carried out by the Federal Office for Agriculture and Food (BLE) within the framework of the Federal Programme for Livestock Farming. Funding reference numbers: 28KTF23C01–05.

== breed4green ==
[[File:Logo B4G RZ RGB 1 Transparent.png|right|frameless|228x228px]]
Direct and indirect traits for feed efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions for breeding and herd management in cattle:

The [https://www.rinderzucht.at/projekt/breed4green.html breed4green] project focuses on researching strategies to reduce methane emissions and enhance feed efficiency within the Austrian cattle industry. Measurements of methane and CO2 emissions are conducted on both experimental and commercial farms using the GreenFeed system. The aim of the project is to collect methane and CO2 measurements of approximately 1,000 Fleckvieh and 200 Brown Swiss cows. In addition, various phenotypes such as health, body weight, BCS, metabolism, energy intake and milk mid infrared (MIR) spectra are recorded. Data on feed intake from experimental farms are also available for validation. The genetic potential of direct traits like methane, CO2 and feed efficiency, along with their correlations to health and other traits, will be analyzed. The project also includes the development and validation of MIR equations for emitted methane and energy balance. The focus will be on investigating the use of these indirect traits to reduce methane emissions and improve feed efficiency in breeding programs to pave the way for genomic selection. The results will also be used to optimize herd management. Furthermore, the environmental impact of relevant dairy and beef production systems in Austria will be investigated.

== CH4COW ==
The Association of Swiss Cattle Breeders ([https://asr-ch.ch/en/About-us/-Zweck-und-Ziele ASR]) has launched a comprehensive phenotyping initiative aimed at establishing routine genetic evaluations for methane emissions based on Swiss derived phenotypic data.

The initial project, [https://qualitasag.ch/en/ch4cow/ CH4COW], started in 2024 and will span four years. Its primary objective is the deployment of methane measuring sniffers (MooLoggers, Tecnosens) across 64 farms throughout Switzerland. Among these, 30 farms house Holstein (HOL) herds, while the remainder keep Brown Swiss cattle. The project is funded by the Swiss Federal Office of Agriculture, several cantonal governments (FR, GR, LU, SG, and ZG), and the ASR.

The Brown Swiss part of the CH4COW project is closely linked to the dairy cattle section of the Global Methane Genetics Inititiative.

Project status: All methane measuring sniffers have now been installed on the participating farms, ensuring continuous and standardized data acquisition. Automated data processing pipelines are fully operational, enabling seamless transfer, storage, and organization of incoming data streams. Concurrently, several methodological frameworks for data cleaning, quality control, and the development of robust methane related phenotypes are under active evaluation. These efforts aim to establish reliable phenotype definitions that will ultimately support future single-step genetic evaluations.

If you would like to know more about this project you can contact Beat Bapst ([Mailto:beat.bapst@qualitasag.ch beat.bapst@qualitasag.ch]) or Adrien Butty ([Mailto:Adrien.butty@qualitasag.ch adrien.butty@qualitasag.ch])

== Presentation materials ==

=== Seminar by Julius van der Werf: Breeding for a changing climate 13-05-2025 ===
On the 13th of May Julius van de Werf gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on selection indexes for selecting low methane livestock, focused on sheep. You can find the slides [[:File:20250513 Seminar J.v.d.Werf.pdf|here]]. You can find the recording of the presentation below.

<youtube>PxKmxKVvVEA?si=C6x0keKAvgU009Da</youtube>

=== Seminar by Maria Frizzarin: Introduction to milk mid-infrared spectroscopy 10-07-2025 ===
On the 10th of July Maria Frizzarin gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on milk mid-infrared spectroscopy, equations development, and applications. You can find the slides [[:File:10072025 Seminar Maria MIR.pdf|here.]]

=== Seminar by Sarah-Joe Burn: Breed4Green 25-09-2025 ===
On the 25th of September Sarah-Joe Burn gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on measuring methane emissions in commercial farms and establishing a comprehensive dataset for genetic studies. A similar presentations was given at EAAP 2025, you can find the slides to that presentation [[:File:Eaap2025-breed4green-linke.pdf|here]] and the abstract [[:File:2025 Innsbruck EAAP Book Abstracts.pdf|here]], page 250.

=== '''Seminar by Fazel Almasi: Measuring methane in dairy cows using Arcoflex sensors 25-09-2025''' ===
On the 25th of September Fazel Almasi gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on the repeatability and heritability of dairy cow methane concentration using sniffer sensors. You can find the slides to the presentation [[:File:FA-ArcoflexUpdate.pdf|here]].

=== Joint ICAR Feed&Gas and ASGGN workshop ===
On the 5th of October the joint workshop between the [https://www.icar.org/group/working-group-feed-and-gas/ ICAR Feed&Gas working group] and the [https://www.asggn.org/ ASGGN] took place before the GGAA conference in Nairobi. The presentations can be found below.

[[:File:2025 ASGGN - GGAA - A Taste of the Future Buccal Swabbing for Rumen Microbial ProfilingTB.pdf|A Taste of the Future: Buccal Swabbing for Rumen Microbial Profiling]]. Presented by Ben Perry ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:2638 Booker ILRI GGAA ASGGN Oct 2025.pdf|Rate of Genetic Gain for Methane Emissions in a Maternal Production Flock]]. Presented by Fem Booker ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:Boris ICAR2025 v01.pdf|Association between rumen and faecal microbiome and enteric methane emissions in dairy cattle]]. Presented by Boris Sepulveda ([https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/ AV])

[[:File:CaeliRichardson GGAA Workshop 2025.pdf|Global Framework to Monitor, Measure, and Account for Methane Reductions from Genetic Selection]]. Presented by Caeli Richardson ([https://abacusbio.com/ Abacusbio])

[[:File:GGAA Workshop ICAR and ASGGN Ida Storm.pdf|Danish Perspectives on implementation of GHG regulation]]. Presented by Ida Storm ([https://agricultureandfood.dk/ DAFG])

[[:File:GGAA Workshop ICAR and ASGGN Rasmus Stephansen.pdf|Experience with CH4 sniffers, what have we learned so far?]] Presented by Rasmus Stephansen ([https://international.au.dk/ AU])

[[:File:GGAA workshop MIR methane presentation.pdf|Overview of the methane equations developed from mid-infrared spectroscopy and their applications.]] Presented by Maria Frizzarin ([https://www.agroscope.admin.ch/agroscope/en/home.html Agroscope])

[[:File:HanneHonerlagen ICARpresentation.pdf|Adding microbial data to enhance breeding for lower methane emissions]]. Presented by Hanne Honerlagen ([https://www.wur.nl/en/research-results/chair-groups/animal-sciences/animal-breeding-and-genomics-group.htm WUR-ABG])

[[:File:McNaughton ASGGN Workshop final.pdf|GreenFeed for phenotyping – our experiences]]. Presented by Lorna McNaughton ([https://www.lic.co.nz/ LIC])

[[:File:MIE ILRI GGAA ASGGN Oct 2025.pdf|Methane Index Explorer: Optimising a Breeding Value Format for Simultaneous Inclusion of Enteric Methane Emissions in Breeding Schemes and National Inventories]]. Presented by Pavithra Ariyarathne ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:RiccardoGGAA Presentation RB.pdf|ZELP sense]]. Presented by Riccardo Bica ([https://www.zelp.co/ ZELP])

[[:File:ICAR Working group Nairobi 5 Oct2025.pdf|Selection for lower methane livestock, selection index considerations]]. Presented by Julius van der Werf (UNE)

Measuring enteric methane in beef and dairy cattle using PAC. Presented by Timothy Bilton ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])<youtube>https://youtu.be/NjPuotrmkMQ</youtube>

Estimating methane emissions with the GreenFeed System. Presented by Paul Smith ([https://teagasc.ie/ Teagasc]) <youtube>https://youtu.be/TnHefWoP29I</youtube>

Section 20: Activities

2026-02-10T10:43:02Z

Cvangemert: /* Presentation materials */ added CH4COW

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NOTE: This version of Section 20 has been approved by the working group's Chair. Please be aware that further revisions may occur before final review and approval by the Board and ICAR members per the [[Approval of Page Process]].

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== Global Methane Genetics ==
[[File:GMG label.png|right|frameless|300x300px]]
The Global Methane Genetics (GMG) initiative is a global program to accelerate genetic progress in methane emission in ruminants in the Global North and South. This WUR-ABG coordinated initiative is funded by the [https://www.globalmethanehub.org/ Global Methane Hub] and the [https://www.bezosearthfund.org/ Bezos Earth Fund,] both based on philanthropic funds to support methane mitigation and prevent global warming. If you have questions about the [https://www.wur.nl/en/project/global-methane-genetics-initiative.htm GMG initiative] you can send an email to gmg@wur.nl, contact Roel Veerkamp: roel.veerkamp@wur.nl or Birgit Gredler-Grandl: birgit.gredler-grandl@wur.nl.

The initiative holds the following projects:

=== '''Dairy Cattle''' ===
We can look to nature to reduce CH4 emissions and use genetic diversity to provide solutions. Genetic improvement, based on identifying animals with genetic predisposition for lower CH4 output and using them to breed for the next generations, is a reliable, cost-effective, and permanent method for transforming livestock's impact on the environment. Breeding programs in dairy cattle are run within breeds and across countries. Therefore, the program will accelerate genetic progress by focusing on four major dairy breeds and organizations and countries involved in those breeds. Additionally, the program will acquire considerable leverage through investments in these countries. If you have questions about the dairy cattle section you can contact Birgit Gredler-Grandl: birgit.gredler-grandl@wur.nl.

==== ''Holstein breed'' ====
The largest data collection has been for the Holstein breed, but there is a lack of standardization and protocols in terms of equipment and its utilization (farm level, data processing, data sharing agreements, genetic evaluations, and data collections). Governments and breeding organizations in Denmark and the Netherlands will collaborate and collect methane and genotypes on more than 20,000 Holstein cows for the GMG database. Also, Poland and Italy team up to collect data for the GMG database, and their aim is also to collect more than 20,000 Holstein animals and develop genetic evaluations across a wide range of systems.

===== Denmark-The Netherlands =====
This collaboration between Aarhus University and Wageningen Livestock Research has five main goals. The contact person for questions about this project is Trine Villumsen: tmv@qgg.au.dk.

* Setting up Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for measuring methane using sniffers
* Setting up international protocols to measure methane on commercial farms
* Develop software tools to automate the processing of data into a phenotype
* Combine historical data in both countries for genetic evaluations
* Measure enteric methane in 20.000 new cows.

===== Poland-Italy =====
This collaboration has the following main goals. The contact person for questions about this project is Raffaella Finocchiaro raffaellafinocchiaro@anafibj.it.

* Measure enteric methane in 20.000 new cows.

==== ''Jersey breed'' ====
Currently, due to the limited data available, the Jersey dairy breed does not have breeding values for methane (CH4) mitigation. The goal of the program is to collect methane genotypes in Canada and Denmark and share this information with the GMG database. The aim is to develop breeding values that will be distributed through the World Jersey Cattle Bureau organization and national Jersey organizations in Australia, Canada, Switzerland, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and New Zealand. If you have questions about the Jersey breed section you can contact Rasmus Bak Stephansen rasmus.stephansen@qgg.au.dk

==== ''Brown Swiss breed'' ====
The Brown Swiss (BS) breed faces significant challenges due to its small population size, an divers environments the animals are kept. A collaboration between Germany, Switzerland, and Austria to phenotype enough animals is a prerequisite for utilizing the genetic potential of reducing methane emission of the BS breed. In addition to a population of 250 cows recorded with Greenfeed, and 1250 with the sniffer, progress will be accelerated by recording an additional 3,360 cows with sniffers. If you have questions about the Brown Swiss breed section you can contact Elena Frenken: fe@fbf-forschung.de.

==== ''Red breeds'' ====
The red breeds are important for crossbreeding in many countries around the world. The project aims to share and collect CH4 data from Red Dairy Cattle (RDC) breeds (in the Nordic countries, Canada, and the United Kingdom (UK)) and share it with the Global Methane Genetics (GMG) Hub. Together, they will set up a shared genetic evaluation for bulls used for crossbreeding in many more countries. If you have questions about the Red breed section you can contact Elisenda Rius-Vilarrasa: Elisenda.Rius-Vilarrasa@vxa.se.

=== '''Beef Cattle''' ===

==== ''Bluegrass (global beef)'' ====
All industries world-wide have been challenged with reducing emissions and beef is no exception. Genetic selection and specifically genomic selection have been identified as key tools to help meet this challenge. Methane emissions are not a local problem, but a global one and several major beef producing countries who exchange genetic material have, are, and will be collecting methane phenotypes for the purpose of genomic prediction. Individually (including those in Australia), these datasets will be limited in their genomic prediction accuracy. The BLUEGRASS alliance will bring together the key players globally, who collectively have solicited key seed funding from the Global Methane Hub. By sharing data and resources, the development of necessary reference populations will be accelerated. Locally or globally, success in the beef genetics industry has been a model of ‘co-opetition’. Breeders, although competitors, pool resources to build tools that can be used by all to compete with one another. This BLUEGRASS alliance is no different. A global alliance will come together to address this challenge, with or without Australia. Having Australia lead and ignite the alliance with MDC co-funding will create opportunities to direct this global initiative and provide first mover advantages for Australian breeders.

The program is focused on building genomic reference datasets for the main beef breeds in the collaborating countries. The animals to be recorded will be intensively recorded for other production traits, and genotyped, outside this project itself. In each country, trial or research breeding values will be produced and delivered to industry during the life of the project – enabling genetic selection against methane to get underway, and the data will underpin the ability to genomically screen the entire populations of the breeds involved in the respective countries i.e. all seedstock and commercial animals. The data collected will likely assist development of genomic selection against methane in other countries. The accelerated genetic selection and the commercial animal screening will enable real impact to reduce methane from beef cattle. If you have questions about the bluegrass project specifically, you can contact Steve Miller, steve.miller@une.edu.au

===== Number of phenotypes =====
This project will phenotype methane traits in beef cattle populations in the US, Australia, the UK, Ireland, and New Zealand. Around 18.500 phenotypes will be collected over all years and countries. It is estimated that around 7.000 phenotypes will be collected in Australia, around 1.600 in New Zealand, around 800 in the UK, around 2.000 in Ireland and around 7.00 in the USA.
===== Breeds and traits included =====
All countries included in the Bluegrass project have different breeds and different target traits included in their measurements, besides the methane phenotypes.

Australia will focus on Angus and Hereford seedstock with a research population of Angus, Wagyu, Charolais, Shorthorn and Brahman being a target as well. For the seedstock they will focus on seedstock traits plus methane measurements using PAC measures. For the research populations on seedstock traits plus feed intake, carcass as well as methane measurements with PAC.

For New Zealand priority is the progeny test herds. These are mostly Angus, Hereford and their crosses, including a diallel cross design. Some Angus x Simmental. Complete requirements with seedstock herds of Angus and Hereford. Focus is on the following: progeny test, seedstock traits, conception date (via fetal aging) from natural mate at yearling (then re-breeding), carcass grading on steers, feed intake on heifers, rumen microbiome on steers and heifers, seedstock traits from seedstock herds

For the UK focus lies on Angus and Hereford sired animals, both pedigree and crossbred (including from dairy dams) and they focus on liveweights.

For Ireland they include multi-breed/crossbreed. 30% Charolais and Limousin sired from Continental type suckler dams, 30% Holstein-Friesian and 40% beef (mostly Angus) cross dairy. They will focus on feed intake, liveweight and carcass data.

The USA will be measuring Angus focused on seedstock traits from seedstock herds.

==== ''US beef'' ====
This project will accelerate genetic selection for reduced methane emissions from U.S. and Canadian beef cattle, through phenotyping and genotyping the 18 most influential beef breeds in North America.

The primary activities of this project will center on phenotyping and genetic evaluation of the Germplasm Evaluation (GPE) herd, a large, multibreed resource population at the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) in Nebraska, USA. This herd is structured to represent the genetic diversity of the 18 most influential beef breeds in the U.S.. These 18 breeds are: Angus, Red Angus, Hereford, South Devon, Shorthorn, Beefmaster, Brangus, Brahman, Santa Gertrudis, Braunvieh, ChiAngus, Charolais, Gelbvieh, Limousin, Maine-Anjou, Salers, Simmental, Tarentaise.

Recording of methane phenotypes will occur using multiple approaches to not only maximize the number of phenotypes collected, but to also offer a comparison between methodologies within a U.S. beef production system. Based on these findings and in coordination with other GMG project teams, standard operating procedures for methane phenotyping of beef cattle will be developed and integrated into the [https://beefimprovement.org/resource-center/bif-guidelines/ Guidelines for Uniform Beef Improvement Programs] supporting the evolution of these approaches into standard practice and routine evaluation in any beef breeding system. If you have questions about the US beef project specifically, you can contact Matthew Spangler, mspangler2@unl.edu.

===== Main goals =====
* Recording methane phenotypes from at least 5,500 multi-breed genotyped beef cattle and openly sharing to the GMG database and the public domain.
* Development and publication of uniform guidelines for both methane phenotyping in beef cattle systems and the integration of methane phenotypes into beef genetic evaluations, through the BIF Guidelines wiki.
* Dissemination and routine updating of genetic parameter and genomic marker effects critical for the development of genetic selection tools and deployment of methane-reducing breeding programs.

=== '''Sheep''' ===
This project focusses on recording methane phenotypes on animals in various populations, e.g. Merino, Texel, Dohne, Corriedale, maternal and terminal. In each case, those animals will be recorded for a range of other production, health, product quality and welfare traits (the exact suite of traits varies between countries). This ensures that it will be possible to determine the genetic relationships between methane traits and the other traits included in current and future selection indexes and breeding programs – meaning that breeders will be able to make informed decisions on any trade-offs between methane and other traits. In total around 16.600 methane phenotypes will be collected over all years and countries. It is estimated that around 7.500 methane phenotypes will be collected in Australia, 3.000 in Uruguay, 4.000 in New Zealand, 1.200 in the UK and 1.000 in the UK. If you have questions about the sheep project specifically, you can contact Daniel Brown, dbrown2@une.edu.au
==== Main goals ====
* Phenotyping and reference populations. Fast tracked phenotyping and genotyping up to 16,000 records of methane traits across the key countries to facilitate accurate international evaluation of animals (Table 2).
* Genetic evaluation and models. Breeding values based on international genomic evaluation models to share the benefits of the established reference populations.
* Proxies. Development and validation of new phenotyping methods to expedite genetic progress.
* Breeding Programs. Whole farm system models to incorporate methane into breeding objectives in a balanced way and indexes to facilitate selection of breeding candidates.
* Education and adoption. Stakeholder engagement campaign and international development to ensure world-wide impact.

=== '''Africa''' ===
This project focused on three regions of Africa (Eastern, Western and Southern Africa). It will will leverage and accelerate on-going early research on GHG in these regions, strongly build capacity and team up with researchers to record CH4, other economic productive traits and use the records to implement breeding strategies to reduce CH4 emission while simultaneously enhancing productivity, food security and employment opportunities in the dairy and beef cattle farming systems; The source of livelihood for many poorly resourced farmers.

Tapping into the existing breeding program infrastructure for improved productivity for dairy cattle in the three regions of Africa, this project will result in overall program that will accelerate genetic progress through focus on phenotyping, genotyping and the use of information from the microbiome in the genetic selection of animals in the smallholder dairy system. The overall impact will be better mitigation of negative effects of climate change and more productive cows. Through selection programs based on the index developed with the phenotypic and genomic information from this project.

The major activities include the direct CH4 measurements on about 1.655 tropical cattle using [[Greenfeed SOP|GreenFeed]] and the use of [[Laser Methane Detector|LMD]] in smallholder farmers. Genotypic information and phenotypes captured routinely on major important productive traits that influence profitability, income and livelihood of farmers on 1.619 animals. Data sets will be linked to a larger existing data on 9.000 cows with phenotypic and genotypic information from existing projects. If you have questions about the Africa project specifically, you can contact Raphael Mrode, raphael.mrode@sruc.ac.uk

==== Main goals ====

* Methane measurements available on 1.655 tropical cows.
* Tissue samples and genotypes available on 1.619 tropical cows.
* Genetic relationship between dairy cows in Western and Eastern Africa estimated.
* Multi-trait genomic analysis of dairy data and methane in Eastern Africa.
* Incorporate existing data on over 9.000 cows from existing research projects to enhance genomic prediction.
* Computation and the roll out of final selection index or sub-indexes developed for improved efficiency - reduced CH4 emission, lower maintenance requirement and increased milk production.

=== '''Latin America''' ===
The aim of this project is to accelerate the reduction of enteric methane emissions in beef cattle in Latin America through genetic selection in key breeds relevant to Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, and Mexico. The focus will be on phenotyping methane emissions and genotyping animals linked to existing genetic improvement programs. Reference populations for genomic selection will be the basis to improve the estimation of genetic merit and select for lower emission. The link with ongoing genetic improvement programs provides data on other economically relevant production traits, thus making it possible to estimate genetic correlations and optimize methane emission reductions with a minimum impact on livestock productivity. This approach minimizes negative impacts on food production while preserving economic, social, and environmental sustainability of beef cattle farming. This collaborative project between national agricultural research institutes (NARI) is supported by breeders’ associations and other key stakeholders. Public-private partnerships and collaborative efforts will scale genetic evaluation for methane emissions as well as the use of lower methane emission genetics on commercial farms. Phenotypic and genomic data from approximately 7.000 animals will be made globally available. In synergy with other projects, it will be possible to increase the size of reference populations leading to an even greater impact on methane emissions mitigation. If you have questions about the Latin America project specifically, you can contact Elly Navajas, enavajas@inia.org.uy

For developing methane emission phenotyping platforms and reference populations, it is essential to upgrade methane emission recording equipment as well as standardize and coordinate the measurement of animals. Standardized protocols will be developed in collaboration with ICAR, and the criteria for selecting animals to be measured and genotyped will be established by the research team, including technicians from breeder associations. A critical component of the project involves genetic analyses, such as estimating genetic parameters for methane emission-related traits, validating breeding values in additional populations, and evaluating the impact of selecting for reduced methane emissions. Scientific collaboration will be fostered with other beef cattle projects, focusing on areas such as expertise exchange. Communication strategies will be implemented to engage stakeholders, including breeders, artificial insemination centers, policymakers, and other private stakeholders. Dialogue with teams managing greenhouse gas (GHG) inventories and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) will also be enhanced. These activities require active collaboration among countries and stakeholders in Latin America to achieve successful outcomes.

==== Main goals ====

* A Latin American collaborative network for accelerating genetic improvement for methane emissions reduction is established by NARIs, universities, breeder societies, and private stakeholders engaged in genetic evaluation programs across South America and Mexico.
* Methane emission phenotyping platforms are implemented, enabling data collection across key beef cattle breeds, targeting 7.000 methane emission phenotypes and genotypes of animals linked to genetic evaluations.
* Genomic-enhanced estimated breeding values for methane emissions will be available to breeders: based on pure-breed and multi-breed reference populations enhanced through collaboration and data sharing across beef cattle projects within the GMG initiative.
* The economic and environmental impact of breeding strategies to reduce methane emissions is assessed, to identify the most promising breeding strategies to accelerate methane emission reduction. The development of breeding objectives combining methane emission reduction with production goals will support policy and incentives for breeders and farmers to overcome adoption barriers and integrate the results into national GHG inventories.

=== '''Microbiome''' ===
The micro-HUB project will establish a reference population with metagenome and genotype data, and create a genomic evaluation system that can be used to select the parents of the next generation with microbiome profiles that produce less enteric methane while maintaining genetic progress in profit and health. The genomic evaluation system will be widely open, will target most relevant breeds and production systems. Furthermore, a large global microbiome network will be established to collect existing data and knowledge and ensure knowledge transfer.

This project will start with metagenome and genomic data on 5.430 individuals from the core project partners, we will explore the opportunity to extend and expand our reference population to other countries with suitable data. By combining national data sets with genotypes, microbiome and methane information, we aim to create the largest rumen microbiome reference population globally. We aim to enlarge the reference population by more than 20.000 microbiome sequenced dairy and beef cattle as well as sheep from the Global Methane Genetics (GMG) program. From this, we will facilitate the delivery of genomic breeding values that can be used in global breeding programs to select for a microbiome composition with lower emissions and reduce the abundance of methanogenic pathways in the rumen microbiome of future generations of cattle and sheep. The project partners cover beef, dairy and sheep populations and creates an opportunity to identify a core microbiome (or set of cores) that can be used as a reference for nation-based breeding programs. The project will closely connect to the other projects within the Global Methane Program, to facilitate microbiome sampling, sequencing and genomic analysis. If you have questions about the microbiome project specifically, you can contact Oscar Gonzalez-Recio, oscar.gonzalezrecio@ed.ac.uk

==== Activities ====
To enlarge the national database partners will obtain additional samples from animals with methane and genotype data from different breeds and production systems within the GMG phenotyping program (dairy and beef cattle). The inclusion of samples from external partners will be encouraged. Partners (also external) will be provided with instruction to collect data and sample rumen microbiome. The micro-Hub will provide stewardship for GMG partners regarding sampling, storage and shipping, as well as bioinformatic analysis. Rumen metagenome sequencing will be centralized in as fewer labs as possible (ideally only one).

Reference populations from partners will be combined, covering a broad range of breeds and productions systems and different geographical regions. Format of the databases will be unified. The combined dataset will be used for the microbiome genomic evaluations. The reference database will be updated with additional data coming from external partners.

We will develop the capabilities to estimate the genomic breeding value for microbiome composition for any genotyped animal in similar productive conditions as those represented in our reference population. The goal is to propose recommendations based on own experience to include estimated genomic breeding values for rumen microbiome profile in breeding programs.

The project will contribute to the activities organized within Global Methane Genetics and the ICAR Feed&Gas working group in building a microbiome network to exchange knowledge, harmonize guidelines and develop protocols. All data generated within the project will be made available through the Global Methane Genetics database. The project will collaborate with the database development to develop microbiome sharing requirements and specifications.

==== Main goals ====

* Joint reference metagenome compiled.
* Microbiome genomic evaluations.
* Release of SNP coefficients for international genomic evaluations for microbiome compositions.
* Network building and establishment of platform for rumen metagenome data.

=== '''Working Group meetings''' ===

The six working groups as described above meet two times a year. The GMG working group meetings are aimed to share updates about the GMG projects and discuss gaps, needs and bottlenecks in the field.

==== Dairy Cattle ====
15 May 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:250515 GMG meeting Dairy Working Group.pdf|here.]]

27 October 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20251027 GMG Working group Dairy meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Sheep ====
20 May 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20250520 Meeting GMG Working group sheep.pdf|here.]]

11 November 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20251111 Sheep Working Group GMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

==== Microbiome ====
23 May 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:202505 Global Meeting Genetics Microbiome working group meeting.pdf|here.]]

27 November 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20251127 GMG Microbiome WG presentation.pdf|here.]]

==== Latin America ====
5 June 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:202506 Presentation GMG Working Group Latin America meeting.pdf|here.]]

14 November 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20251114 Latin America GMG Work group meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Africa ====
23 May 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20250523 GMG Working group Africa meeting.pdf|here.]]

7 November 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20251107 Africa Workgroup GMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

==== Beef ====
17 June 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:202506 GMG Working group Beef meeting.pdf|here.]]

11 November 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20251106 GMG Working group Beef meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Asia ====
1 July 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20250701 AsiaGMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

25 November 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:GMG Asia From data to impact.pdf|here]], [[:File:Asia 20251105.pdf|here]], [[:File:2511 GMG Asia MethaneMethods.pdf|here]] and [[:File:ILRI LMD Exp 2025.pdf|here]].

==== Webinars ====
On the 22th of May 2025 there was a webinar for all GMG project participants on effective records in the database, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:250515 GMG meeting Dairy Working Group.pdf|here.]]

== DAFNE ==
Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences at the University of Tuscia. Their main purpose is to collect primary emissions data from sniffers and GF to have emissions factors related to the species, breed, physiological state and diet management. They are engaged with ANAFIBJ and sharing data related to Holstein cattle with them for genetic evaluations. Currently they are running trials with sheep and buffalo.

=== Sheep ===
For this trial they are comparing 2 grazing methods using 2 groups of Sopravissana sheep, reared at the facility.

# Rotational, 18 sheep. Turns every 4 days on strip paddocks. 18 paddocks in total; 6 heads on 3 strip paddocks per turn of grazing. After 24 days the sheep are back to the first three strips.
# Continuous, 18 sheep. Continuous grazing on same paddock. 3 paddocks in total; 6 heads per paddock.

Subgroups for both group A and B (6 heads) are randomly arranged every day. The 18 strip paddocks are the same total size as the three continuous paddocks. They have the same number of heads grazing and the same live weight load.

Both groups are balanced for BW, receive the same hay in quantity and quality with ad libitum access and spend the same time at pasture. Daily sampling of the hay and residual per group is done, weekly sub samples of hay and residual are analyzed. In parallel fresh grass is sampled and analyzed to represent the 2 grazing methods.

The GreenFeed is located in the barn, at 9AM this barn is closed for group A and opens for group B and this switches every day. The GreenFeed is the only place they can get concentrates. Nutritional information for this concentrate can be found [[:File:Nutritional table sheep DAFHNE.docx|here]]. Amount of food and cup drops can be found here.

Trial started end of March 2025 and will last 1.5 months. They are using the GF adapted for small ruminants.

=== Buffalo ===
This is a continuous trial which will last 4 months per supplement tested. First they monitor the buffalo for 4 weeks without supplement as a control diet and then there will be an 8 week experimental period with the supplement diet. During the entire period the buffalo are confined to the barn.

The buffalo are separated in two groups, in adjacent pens. One group has access to a milking robot, with the MooLogger from [[Sniffer SOP|Tecnosens.]] The other pen has a conventional milking system and the GreenFeed is placed facing this pen.

All buffaloes are fed the same concentrates. Nutritional information for this concentrate can be found [[:File:Nutritional table Buffalo DAFHNE.docx|here]]. Amount of food and cup drops can be found here. The buffalo’s in the GF group get the concentrates from the GF and about 1 kg of concentrates during milking operations. The buffalo’s in the sniffer group only get concentrates from the milking robot, which is about 2 kg/head/day.

To account for the emissions recorded individually at different times, they compare the emissions data aggregated on a daily basis. They are using the GF adapted for large ruminants with horns

== GasToGrass ==
The aim of this project is to develop new breeding solutions for the industry by finding ways to identify animals with lower environmental impact, which can then be selected as part of genetic improvement programs. This project will contribute with new strategies to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, in sheep production systems. You can find more information on the [https://era-susan.eu/content/grasstogas-grass-gas-strategies-mitigate-ghg-emissions-pasture-based-sheep-systems website]

== MethaBreed ==
[[File:P-2025-1-15-2 FBF Logo MethaBreed Logo 01 4C-01 klein.png|thumb|170x170px]]
The MethaBreed project aims to improve the sustainability of dairy production by developing innovative breeding strategies for dairy cows that simultaneously reduce methane emissions, enhance feed efficiency, and support animal health. A large-scale longitudinal study is being conducted in commercial dairy herds. Using advanced technologies, individual cow traits are recorded across entire lactations and multiple lactation cycles. Data collection includes continuous monitoring of methane emissions using sniffers, feed intake (using CFIT: Cattle Feed Intake System), body weight (using CFIT and scales), and key health parameters. A particular focus lies on the role of the rumen microbiome in methane production. A central goal of MethaBreed is the development of a new breeding value for methane emissions, enabling the selection of animals with lower environmental impact. These data will be integrated with pedigree and genomic information to allow precise breeding decisions. At the same time, the existing breeding value for feed efficiency will be further refined. The outcomes of the project are expected to make a significant contribution towards more climate-friendly dairy production. In the long term, standardized breeding values will be provided, enabling breeding organizations and farmers to actively select for healthier, more efficient, and more sustainable dairy cows. For more information you can visit the following websites from the partners: [https://www.uni-giessen.de/de/fbz/fb09/institute/ith/ag-koenig/forschung/laufend/methabreed University Giessen], [https://www.fbf-forschung.de/aktuelles/methabreed-neues-forschungsprojekt-zur-reduzierung.html FBF], [https://livestock-functional-microbiology.uni-hohenheim.de/en/research-projects#jfmulticontent_c401477-2 University of Hohenheim.] Further partners are [https://www.vit.de/ vit] and [https://www.uni-kiel.de/de/aef/fakultaet/institute/tierzucht-tierhaltung University Kiel]. The project is funded by the German Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Regional Identity on the basis of a resolution of the German Bundestag. The project management is carried out by the Federal Office for Agriculture and Food (BLE) within the framework of the Federal Programme for Livestock Farming. Funding reference numbers: 28KTF23C01–05.

== breed4green ==
[[File:Logo B4G RZ RGB 1 Transparent.png|right|frameless|228x228px]]
Direct and indirect traits for feed efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions for breeding and herd management in cattle:

The [https://www.rinderzucht.at/projekt/breed4green.html breed4green] project focuses on researching strategies to reduce methane emissions and enhance feed efficiency within the Austrian cattle industry. Measurements of methane and CO2 emissions are conducted on both experimental and commercial farms using the GreenFeed system. The aim of the project is to collect methane and CO2 measurements of approximately 1,000 Fleckvieh and 200 Brown Swiss cows. In addition, various phenotypes such as health, body weight, BCS, metabolism, energy intake and milk mid infrared (MIR) spectra are recorded. Data on feed intake from experimental farms are also available for validation. The genetic potential of direct traits like methane, CO2 and feed efficiency, along with their correlations to health and other traits, will be analyzed. The project also includes the development and validation of MIR equations for emitted methane and energy balance. The focus will be on investigating the use of these indirect traits to reduce methane emissions and improve feed efficiency in breeding programs to pave the way for genomic selection. The results will also be used to optimize herd management. Furthermore, the environmental impact of relevant dairy and beef production systems in Austria will be investigated.

== CH4COW ==
The Association of Swiss Cattle Breeders (ASR) has launched a comprehensive phenotyping initiative aimed at establishing routine genetic evaluations for methane emissions based on Swiss derived phenotypic data.

The initial project, [https://qualitasag.ch/en/ch4cow/ CH4COW], started in 2024 and will span four years. Its primary objective is the deployment of methane measuring sniffers (MooLoggers, Tecnosens) across 64 farms throughout Switzerland. Among these, 30 farms house Holstein (HOL) herds, while the remainder keep Brown Swiss cattle. The project is funded by the Swiss Federal Office of Agriculture, several cantonal governments (FR, GR, LU, SG, and ZG), and the ASR.

The Brown Swiss part of the CH4COW project is closely linked to the dairy cattle section of the Global Methane Genetics Inititiative.

Project status: All methane measuring sniffers have now been installed on the participating farms, ensuring continuous and standardized data acquisition. Automated data processing pipelines are fully operational, enabling seamless transfer, storage, and organization of incoming data streams. Concurrently, several methodological frameworks for data cleaning, quality control, and the development of robust methane related phenotypes are under active evaluation. These efforts aim to establish reliable phenotype definitions that will ultimately support future single-step genetic evaluations.

If you would like to know more about this project you can contact [mailto: beat.bapst@qualitasag.ch Beat Bapst] (link to beat.bapst@qualitasag.ch) or Adrien Butty (link to adrien.butty@qualitasag.ch)

== Presentation materials ==

=== Seminar by Julius van der Werf: Breeding for a changing climate 13-05-2025 ===
On the 13th of May Julius van de Werf gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on selection indexes for selecting low methane livestock, focused on sheep. You can find the slides [[:File:20250513 Seminar J.v.d.Werf.pdf|here]]. You can find the recording of the presentation below.

<youtube>PxKmxKVvVEA?si=C6x0keKAvgU009Da</youtube>

=== Seminar by Maria Frizzarin: Introduction to milk mid-infrared spectroscopy 10-07-2025 ===
On the 10th of July Maria Frizzarin gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on milk mid-infrared spectroscopy, equations development, and applications. You can find the slides [[:File:10072025 Seminar Maria MIR.pdf|here.]]

=== Seminar by Sarah-Joe Burn: Breed4Green 25-09-2025 ===
On the 25th of September Sarah-Joe Burn gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on measuring methane emissions in commercial farms and establishing a comprehensive dataset for genetic studies. A similar presentations was given at EAAP 2025, you can find the slides to that presentation [[:File:Eaap2025-breed4green-linke.pdf|here]] and the abstract [[:File:2025 Innsbruck EAAP Book Abstracts.pdf|here]], page 250.

=== '''Seminar by Fazel Almasi: Measuring methane in dairy cows using Arcoflex sensors 25-09-2025''' ===
On the 25th of September Fazel Almasi gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on the repeatability and heritability of dairy cow methane concentration using sniffer sensors. You can find the slides to the presentation [[:File:FA-ArcoflexUpdate.pdf|here]].

=== Joint ICAR Feed&Gas and ASGGN workshop ===
On the 5th of October the joint workshop between the [https://www.icar.org/group/working-group-feed-and-gas/ ICAR Feed&Gas working group] and the [https://www.asggn.org/ ASGGN] took place before the GGAA conference in Nairobi. The presentations can be found below.

[[:File:2025 ASGGN - GGAA - A Taste of the Future Buccal Swabbing for Rumen Microbial ProfilingTB.pdf|A Taste of the Future: Buccal Swabbing for Rumen Microbial Profiling]]. Presented by Ben Perry ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:2638 Booker ILRI GGAA ASGGN Oct 2025.pdf|Rate of Genetic Gain for Methane Emissions in a Maternal Production Flock]]. Presented by Fem Booker ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:Boris ICAR2025 v01.pdf|Association between rumen and faecal microbiome and enteric methane emissions in dairy cattle]]. Presented by Boris Sepulveda ([https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/ AV])

[[:File:CaeliRichardson GGAA Workshop 2025.pdf|Global Framework to Monitor, Measure, and Account for Methane Reductions from Genetic Selection]]. Presented by Caeli Richardson ([https://abacusbio.com/ Abacusbio])

[[:File:GGAA Workshop ICAR and ASGGN Ida Storm.pdf|Danish Perspectives on implementation of GHG regulation]]. Presented by Ida Storm ([https://agricultureandfood.dk/ DAFG])

[[:File:GGAA Workshop ICAR and ASGGN Rasmus Stephansen.pdf|Experience with CH4 sniffers, what have we learned so far?]] Presented by Rasmus Stephansen ([https://international.au.dk/ AU])

[[:File:GGAA workshop MIR methane presentation.pdf|Overview of the methane equations developed from mid-infrared spectroscopy and their applications.]] Presented by Maria Frizzarin ([https://www.agroscope.admin.ch/agroscope/en/home.html Agroscope])

[[:File:HanneHonerlagen ICARpresentation.pdf|Adding microbial data to enhance breeding for lower methane emissions]]. Presented by Hanne Honerlagen ([https://www.wur.nl/en/research-results/chair-groups/animal-sciences/animal-breeding-and-genomics-group.htm WUR-ABG])

[[:File:McNaughton ASGGN Workshop final.pdf|GreenFeed for phenotyping – our experiences]]. Presented by Lorna McNaughton ([https://www.lic.co.nz/ LIC])

[[:File:MIE ILRI GGAA ASGGN Oct 2025.pdf|Methane Index Explorer: Optimising a Breeding Value Format for Simultaneous Inclusion of Enteric Methane Emissions in Breeding Schemes and National Inventories]]. Presented by Pavithra Ariyarathne ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:RiccardoGGAA Presentation RB.pdf|ZELP sense]]. Presented by Riccardo Bica ([https://www.zelp.co/ ZELP])

[[:File:ICAR Working group Nairobi 5 Oct2025.pdf|Selection for lower methane livestock, selection index considerations]]. Presented by Julius van der Werf (UNE)

Measuring enteric methane in beef and dairy cattle using PAC. Presented by Timothy Bilton ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])<youtube>https://youtu.be/NjPuotrmkMQ</youtube>

Estimating methane emissions with the GreenFeed System. Presented by Paul Smith ([https://teagasc.ie/ Teagasc]) <youtube>https://youtu.be/TnHefWoP29I</youtube>

Section 20: Activities

2026-01-30T09:41:06Z

Cvangemert: added projects and seminars

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<big>
NOTE: This version of Section 20 has been approved by the working group's Chair. Please be aware that further revisions may occur before final review and approval by the Board and ICAR members per the [[Approval of Page Process]].

</big>
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== Global Methane Genetics ==
[[File:GMG label.png|right|frameless|300x300px]]
The Global Methane Genetics (GMG) initiative is a global program to accelerate genetic progress in methane emission in ruminants in the Global North and South. This WUR-ABG coordinated initiative is funded by the [https://www.globalmethanehub.org/ Global Methane Hub] and the [https://www.bezosearthfund.org/ Bezos Earth Fund,] both based on philanthropic funds to support methane mitigation and prevent global warming. If you have questions about the [https://www.wur.nl/en/project/global-methane-genetics-initiative.htm GMG initiative] you can send an email to gmg@wur.nl, contact Roel Veerkamp: roel.veerkamp@wur.nl or Birgit Gredler-Grandl: birgit.gredler-grandl@wur.nl.

The initiative holds the following projects:

=== '''Dairy Cattle''' ===
We can look to nature to reduce CH4 emissions and use genetic diversity to provide solutions. Genetic improvement, based on identifying animals with genetic predisposition for lower CH4 output and using them to breed for the next generations, is a reliable, cost-effective, and permanent method for transforming livestock's impact on the environment. Breeding programs in dairy cattle are run within breeds and across countries. Therefore, the program will accelerate genetic progress by focusing on four major dairy breeds and organizations and countries involved in those breeds. Additionally, the program will acquire considerable leverage through investments in these countries. If you have questions about the dairy cattle section you can contact Birgit Gredler-Grandl: birgit.gredler-grandl@wur.nl.

==== ''Holstein breed'' ====
The largest data collection has been for the Holstein breed, but there is a lack of standardization and protocols in terms of equipment and its utilization (farm level, data processing, data sharing agreements, genetic evaluations, and data collections). Governments and breeding organizations in Denmark and the Netherlands will collaborate and collect methane and genotypes on more than 20,000 Holstein cows for the GMG database. Also, Poland and Italy team up to collect data for the GMG database, and their aim is also to collect more than 20,000 Holstein animals and develop genetic evaluations across a wide range of systems.

===== Denmark-The Netherlands =====
This collaboration between Aarhus University and Wageningen Livestock Research has five main goals. The contact person for questions about this project is Trine Villumsen: tmv@qgg.au.dk.

* Setting up Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for measuring methane using sniffers
* Setting up international protocols to measure methane on commercial farms
* Develop software tools to automate the processing of data into a phenotype
* Combine historical data in both countries for genetic evaluations
* Measure enteric methane in 20.000 new cows.

===== Poland-Italy =====
This collaboration has the following main goals. The contact person for questions about this project is Raffaella Finocchiaro raffaellafinocchiaro@anafibj.it.

* Measure enteric methane in 20.000 new cows.

==== ''Jersey breed'' ====
Currently, due to the limited data available, the Jersey dairy breed does not have breeding values for methane (CH4) mitigation. The goal of the program is to collect methane genotypes in Canada and Denmark and share this information with the GMG database. The aim is to develop breeding values that will be distributed through the World Jersey Cattle Bureau organization and national Jersey organizations in Australia, Canada, Switzerland, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and New Zealand. If you have questions about the Jersey breed section you can contact Rasmus Bak Stephansen rasmus.stephansen@qgg.au.dk

==== ''Brown Swiss breed'' ====
The Brown Swiss (BS) breed faces significant challenges due to its small population size, an divers environments the animals are kept. A collaboration between Germany, Switzerland, and Austria to phenotype enough animals is a prerequisite for utilizing the genetic potential of reducing methane emission of the BS breed. In addition to a population of 250 cows recorded with Greenfeed, and 1250 with the sniffer, progress will be accelerated by recording an additional 3,360 cows with sniffers. If you have questions about the Brown Swiss breed section you can contact Elena Frenken: fe@fbf-forschung.de.

==== ''Red breeds'' ====
The red breeds are important for crossbreeding in many countries around the world. The project aims to share and collect CH4 data from Red Dairy Cattle (RDC) breeds (in the Nordic countries, Canada, and the United Kingdom (UK)) and share it with the Global Methane Genetics (GMG) Hub. Together, they will set up a shared genetic evaluation for bulls used for crossbreeding in many more countries. If you have questions about the Red breed section you can contact Elisenda Rius-Vilarrasa: Elisenda.Rius-Vilarrasa@vxa.se.

=== '''Beef Cattle''' ===

==== ''Bluegrass (global beef)'' ====
All industries world-wide have been challenged with reducing emissions and beef is no exception. Genetic selection and specifically genomic selection have been identified as key tools to help meet this challenge. Methane emissions are not a local problem, but a global one and several major beef producing countries who exchange genetic material have, are, and will be collecting methane phenotypes for the purpose of genomic prediction. Individually (including those in Australia), these datasets will be limited in their genomic prediction accuracy. The BLUEGRASS alliance will bring together the key players globally, who collectively have solicited key seed funding from the Global Methane Hub. By sharing data and resources, the development of necessary reference populations will be accelerated. Locally or globally, success in the beef genetics industry has been a model of ‘co-opetition’. Breeders, although competitors, pool resources to build tools that can be used by all to compete with one another. This BLUEGRASS alliance is no different. A global alliance will come together to address this challenge, with or without Australia. Having Australia lead and ignite the alliance with MDC co-funding will create opportunities to direct this global initiative and provide first mover advantages for Australian breeders.

The program is focused on building genomic reference datasets for the main beef breeds in the collaborating countries. The animals to be recorded will be intensively recorded for other production traits, and genotyped, outside this project itself. In each country, trial or research breeding values will be produced and delivered to industry during the life of the project – enabling genetic selection against methane to get underway, and the data will underpin the ability to genomically screen the entire populations of the breeds involved in the respective countries i.e. all seedstock and commercial animals. The data collected will likely assist development of genomic selection against methane in other countries. The accelerated genetic selection and the commercial animal screening will enable real impact to reduce methane from beef cattle. If you have questions about the bluegrass project specifically, you can contact Steve Miller, steve.miller@une.edu.au

===== Number of phenotypes =====
This project will phenotype methane traits in beef cattle populations in the US, Australia, the UK, Ireland, and New Zealand. Around 18.500 phenotypes will be collected over all years and countries. It is estimated that around 7.000 phenotypes will be collected in Australia, around 1.600 in New Zealand, around 800 in the UK, around 2.000 in Ireland and around 7.00 in the USA.
===== Breeds and traits included =====
All countries included in the Bluegrass project have different breeds and different target traits included in their measurements, besides the methane phenotypes.

Australia will focus on Angus and Hereford seedstock with a research population of Angus, Wagyu, Charolais, Shorthorn and Brahman being a target as well. For the seedstock they will focus on seedstock traits plus methane measurements using PAC measures. For the research populations on seedstock traits plus feed intake, carcass as well as methane measurements with PAC.

For New Zealand priority is the progeny test herds. These are mostly Angus, Hereford and their crosses, including a diallel cross design. Some Angus x Simmental. Complete requirements with seedstock herds of Angus and Hereford. Focus is on the following: progeny test, seedstock traits, conception date (via fetal aging) from natural mate at yearling (then re-breeding), carcass grading on steers, feed intake on heifers, rumen microbiome on steers and heifers, seedstock traits from seedstock herds

For the UK focus lies on Angus and Hereford sired animals, both pedigree and crossbred (including from dairy dams) and they focus on liveweights.

For Ireland they include multi-breed/crossbreed. 30% Charolais and Limousin sired from Continental type suckler dams, 30% Holstein-Friesian and 40% beef (mostly Angus) cross dairy. They will focus on feed intake, liveweight and carcass data.

The USA will be measuring Angus focused on seedstock traits from seedstock herds.

==== ''US beef'' ====
This project will accelerate genetic selection for reduced methane emissions from U.S. and Canadian beef cattle, through phenotyping and genotyping the 18 most influential beef breeds in North America.

The primary activities of this project will center on phenotyping and genetic evaluation of the Germplasm Evaluation (GPE) herd, a large, multibreed resource population at the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) in Nebraska, USA. This herd is structured to represent the genetic diversity of the 18 most influential beef breeds in the U.S.. These 18 breeds are: Angus, Red Angus, Hereford, South Devon, Shorthorn, Beefmaster, Brangus, Brahman, Santa Gertrudis, Braunvieh, ChiAngus, Charolais, Gelbvieh, Limousin, Maine-Anjou, Salers, Simmental, Tarentaise.

Recording of methane phenotypes will occur using multiple approaches to not only maximize the number of phenotypes collected, but to also offer a comparison between methodologies within a U.S. beef production system. Based on these findings and in coordination with other GMG project teams, standard operating procedures for methane phenotyping of beef cattle will be developed and integrated into the [https://beefimprovement.org/resource-center/bif-guidelines/ Guidelines for Uniform Beef Improvement Programs] supporting the evolution of these approaches into standard practice and routine evaluation in any beef breeding system. If you have questions about the US beef project specifically, you can contact Matthew Spangler, mspangler2@unl.edu.

===== Main goals =====
* Recording methane phenotypes from at least 5,500 multi-breed genotyped beef cattle and openly sharing to the GMG database and the public domain.
* Development and publication of uniform guidelines for both methane phenotyping in beef cattle systems and the integration of methane phenotypes into beef genetic evaluations, through the BIF Guidelines wiki.
* Dissemination and routine updating of genetic parameter and genomic marker effects critical for the development of genetic selection tools and deployment of methane-reducing breeding programs.

=== '''Sheep''' ===
This project focusses on recording methane phenotypes on animals in various populations, e.g. Merino, Texel, Dohne, Corriedale, maternal and terminal. In each case, those animals will be recorded for a range of other production, health, product quality and welfare traits (the exact suite of traits varies between countries). This ensures that it will be possible to determine the genetic relationships between methane traits and the other traits included in current and future selection indexes and breeding programs – meaning that breeders will be able to make informed decisions on any trade-offs between methane and other traits. In total around 16.600 methane phenotypes will be collected over all years and countries. It is estimated that around 7.500 methane phenotypes will be collected in Australia, 3.000 in Uruguay, 4.000 in New Zealand, 1.200 in the UK and 1.000 in the UK. If you have questions about the sheep project specifically, you can contact Daniel Brown, dbrown2@une.edu.au
==== Main goals ====
* Phenotyping and reference populations. Fast tracked phenotyping and genotyping up to 16,000 records of methane traits across the key countries to facilitate accurate international evaluation of animals (Table 2).
* Genetic evaluation and models. Breeding values based on international genomic evaluation models to share the benefits of the established reference populations.
* Proxies. Development and validation of new phenotyping methods to expedite genetic progress.
* Breeding Programs. Whole farm system models to incorporate methane into breeding objectives in a balanced way and indexes to facilitate selection of breeding candidates.
* Education and adoption. Stakeholder engagement campaign and international development to ensure world-wide impact.

=== '''Africa''' ===
This project focused on three regions of Africa (Eastern, Western and Southern Africa). It will will leverage and accelerate on-going early research on GHG in these regions, strongly build capacity and team up with researchers to record CH4, other economic productive traits and use the records to implement breeding strategies to reduce CH4 emission while simultaneously enhancing productivity, food security and employment opportunities in the dairy and beef cattle farming systems; The source of livelihood for many poorly resourced farmers.

Tapping into the existing breeding program infrastructure for improved productivity for dairy cattle in the three regions of Africa, this project will result in overall program that will accelerate genetic progress through focus on phenotyping, genotyping and the use of information from the microbiome in the genetic selection of animals in the smallholder dairy system. The overall impact will be better mitigation of negative effects of climate change and more productive cows. Through selection programs based on the index developed with the phenotypic and genomic information from this project.

The major activities include the direct CH4 measurements on about 1.655 tropical cattle using [[Greenfeed SOP|GreenFeed]] and the use of [[Laser Methane Detector|LMD]] in smallholder farmers. Genotypic information and phenotypes captured routinely on major important productive traits that influence profitability, income and livelihood of farmers on 1.619 animals. Data sets will be linked to a larger existing data on 9.000 cows with phenotypic and genotypic information from existing projects. If you have questions about the Africa project specifically, you can contact Raphael Mrode, raphael.mrode@sruc.ac.uk

==== Main goals ====

* Methane measurements available on 1.655 tropical cows.
* Tissue samples and genotypes available on 1.619 tropical cows.
* Genetic relationship between dairy cows in Western and Eastern Africa estimated.
* Multi-trait genomic analysis of dairy data and methane in Eastern Africa.
* Incorporate existing data on over 9.000 cows from existing research projects to enhance genomic prediction.
* Computation and the roll out of final selection index or sub-indexes developed for improved efficiency - reduced CH4 emission, lower maintenance requirement and increased milk production.

=== '''Latin America''' ===
The aim of this project is to accelerate the reduction of enteric methane emissions in beef cattle in Latin America through genetic selection in key breeds relevant to Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, and Mexico. The focus will be on phenotyping methane emissions and genotyping animals linked to existing genetic improvement programs. Reference populations for genomic selection will be the basis to improve the estimation of genetic merit and select for lower emission. The link with ongoing genetic improvement programs provides data on other economically relevant production traits, thus making it possible to estimate genetic correlations and optimize methane emission reductions with a minimum impact on livestock productivity. This approach minimizes negative impacts on food production while preserving economic, social, and environmental sustainability of beef cattle farming. This collaborative project between national agricultural research institutes (NARI) is supported by breeders’ associations and other key stakeholders. Public-private partnerships and collaborative efforts will scale genetic evaluation for methane emissions as well as the use of lower methane emission genetics on commercial farms. Phenotypic and genomic data from approximately 7.000 animals will be made globally available. In synergy with other projects, it will be possible to increase the size of reference populations leading to an even greater impact on methane emissions mitigation. If you have questions about the Latin America project specifically, you can contact Elly Navajas, enavajas@inia.org.uy

For developing methane emission phenotyping platforms and reference populations, it is essential to upgrade methane emission recording equipment as well as standardize and coordinate the measurement of animals. Standardized protocols will be developed in collaboration with ICAR, and the criteria for selecting animals to be measured and genotyped will be established by the research team, including technicians from breeder associations. A critical component of the project involves genetic analyses, such as estimating genetic parameters for methane emission-related traits, validating breeding values in additional populations, and evaluating the impact of selecting for reduced methane emissions. Scientific collaboration will be fostered with other beef cattle projects, focusing on areas such as expertise exchange. Communication strategies will be implemented to engage stakeholders, including breeders, artificial insemination centers, policymakers, and other private stakeholders. Dialogue with teams managing greenhouse gas (GHG) inventories and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) will also be enhanced. These activities require active collaboration among countries and stakeholders in Latin America to achieve successful outcomes.

==== Main goals ====

* A Latin American collaborative network for accelerating genetic improvement for methane emissions reduction is established by NARIs, universities, breeder societies, and private stakeholders engaged in genetic evaluation programs across South America and Mexico.
* Methane emission phenotyping platforms are implemented, enabling data collection across key beef cattle breeds, targeting 7.000 methane emission phenotypes and genotypes of animals linked to genetic evaluations.
* Genomic-enhanced estimated breeding values for methane emissions will be available to breeders: based on pure-breed and multi-breed reference populations enhanced through collaboration and data sharing across beef cattle projects within the GMG initiative.
* The economic and environmental impact of breeding strategies to reduce methane emissions is assessed, to identify the most promising breeding strategies to accelerate methane emission reduction. The development of breeding objectives combining methane emission reduction with production goals will support policy and incentives for breeders and farmers to overcome adoption barriers and integrate the results into national GHG inventories.

=== '''Microbiome''' ===
The micro-HUB project will establish a reference population with metagenome and genotype data, and create a genomic evaluation system that can be used to select the parents of the next generation with microbiome profiles that produce less enteric methane while maintaining genetic progress in profit and health. The genomic evaluation system will be widely open, will target most relevant breeds and production systems. Furthermore, a large global microbiome network will be established to collect existing data and knowledge and ensure knowledge transfer.

This project will start with metagenome and genomic data on 5.430 individuals from the core project partners, we will explore the opportunity to extend and expand our reference population to other countries with suitable data. By combining national data sets with genotypes, microbiome and methane information, we aim to create the largest rumen microbiome reference population globally. We aim to enlarge the reference population by more than 20.000 microbiome sequenced dairy and beef cattle as well as sheep from the Global Methane Genetics (GMG) program. From this, we will facilitate the delivery of genomic breeding values that can be used in global breeding programs to select for a microbiome composition with lower emissions and reduce the abundance of methanogenic pathways in the rumen microbiome of future generations of cattle and sheep. The project partners cover beef, dairy and sheep populations and creates an opportunity to identify a core microbiome (or set of cores) that can be used as a reference for nation-based breeding programs. The project will closely connect to the other projects within the Global Methane Program, to facilitate microbiome sampling, sequencing and genomic analysis. If you have questions about the microbiome project specifically, you can contact Oscar Gonzalez-Recio, oscar.gonzalezrecio@ed.ac.uk

==== Activities ====
To enlarge the national database partners will obtain additional samples from animals with methane and genotype data from different breeds and production systems within the GMG phenotyping program (dairy and beef cattle). The inclusion of samples from external partners will be encouraged. Partners (also external) will be provided with instruction to collect data and sample rumen microbiome. The micro-Hub will provide stewardship for GMG partners regarding sampling, storage and shipping, as well as bioinformatic analysis. Rumen metagenome sequencing will be centralized in as fewer labs as possible (ideally only one).

Reference populations from partners will be combined, covering a broad range of breeds and productions systems and different geographical regions. Format of the databases will be unified. The combined dataset will be used for the microbiome genomic evaluations. The reference database will be updated with additional data coming from external partners.

We will develop the capabilities to estimate the genomic breeding value for microbiome composition for any genotyped animal in similar productive conditions as those represented in our reference population. The goal is to propose recommendations based on own experience to include estimated genomic breeding values for rumen microbiome profile in breeding programs.

The project will contribute to the activities organized within Global Methane Genetics and the ICAR Feed&Gas working group in building a microbiome network to exchange knowledge, harmonize guidelines and develop protocols. All data generated within the project will be made available through the Global Methane Genetics database. The project will collaborate with the database development to develop microbiome sharing requirements and specifications.

==== Main goals ====

* Joint reference metagenome compiled.
* Microbiome genomic evaluations.
* Release of SNP coefficients for international genomic evaluations for microbiome compositions.
* Network building and establishment of platform for rumen metagenome data.

=== '''Working Group meetings''' ===

The six working groups as described above meet two times a year. The GMG working group meetings are aimed to share updates about the GMG projects and discuss gaps, needs and bottlenecks in the field.

==== Dairy Cattle ====
15 May 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:250515 GMG meeting Dairy Working Group.pdf|here.]]

27 October 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20251027 GMG Working group Dairy meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Sheep ====
20 May 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20250520 Meeting GMG Working group sheep.pdf|here.]]

11 November 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20251111 Sheep Working Group GMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

==== Microbiome ====
23 May 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:202505 Global Meeting Genetics Microbiome working group meeting.pdf|here.]]

27 November 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20251127 GMG Microbiome WG presentation.pdf|here.]]

==== Latin America ====
5 June 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:202506 Presentation GMG Working Group Latin America meeting.pdf|here.]]

14 November 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20251114 Latin America GMG Work group meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Africa ====
23 May 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20250523 GMG Working group Africa meeting.pdf|here.]]

7 November 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20251107 Africa Workgroup GMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

==== Beef ====
17 June 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:202506 GMG Working group Beef meeting.pdf|here.]]

11 November 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20251106 GMG Working group Beef meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Asia ====
1 July 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20250701 AsiaGMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

25 November 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:GMG Asia From data to impact.pdf|here]], [[:File:Asia 20251105.pdf|here]], [[:File:2511 GMG Asia MethaneMethods.pdf|here]] and [[:File:ILRI LMD Exp 2025.pdf|here]].

==== Webinars ====
On the 22th of May 2025 there was a webinar for all GMG project participants on effective records in the database, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:250515 GMG meeting Dairy Working Group.pdf|here.]]

== DAFNE ==
Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences at the University of Tuscia. Their main purpose is to collect primary emissions data from sniffers and GF to have emissions factors related to the species, breed, physiological state and diet management. They are engaged with ANAFIBJ and sharing data related to Holstein cattle with them for genetic evaluations. Currently they are running trials with sheep and buffalo.

=== Sheep ===
For this trial they are comparing 2 grazing methods using 2 groups of Sopravissana sheep, reared at the facility.

# Rotational, 18 sheep. Turns every 4 days on strip paddocks. 18 paddocks in total; 6 heads on 3 strip paddocks per turn of grazing. After 24 days the sheep are back to the first three strips.
# Continuous, 18 sheep. Continuous grazing on same paddock. 3 paddocks in total; 6 heads per paddock.

Subgroups for both group A and B (6 heads) are randomly arranged every day. The 18 strip paddocks are the same total size as the three continuous paddocks. They have the same number of heads grazing and the same live weight load.

Both groups are balanced for BW, receive the same hay in quantity and quality with ad libitum access and spend the same time at pasture. Daily sampling of the hay and residual per group is done, weekly sub samples of hay and residual are analyzed. In parallel fresh grass is sampled and analyzed to represent the 2 grazing methods.

The GreenFeed is located in the barn, at 9AM this barn is closed for group A and opens for group B and this switches every day. The GreenFeed is the only place they can get concentrates. Nutritional information for this concentrate can be found [[:File:Nutritional table sheep DAFHNE.docx|here]]. Amount of food and cup drops can be found here.

Trial started end of March 2025 and will last 1.5 months. They are using the GF adapted for small ruminants.

=== Buffalo ===
This is a continuous trial which will last 4 months per supplement tested. First they monitor the buffalo for 4 weeks without supplement as a control diet and then there will be an 8 week experimental period with the supplement diet. During the entire period the buffalo are confined to the barn.

The buffalo are separated in two groups, in adjacent pens. One group has access to a milking robot, with the MooLogger from [[Sniffer SOP|Tecnosens.]] The other pen has a conventional milking system and the GreenFeed is placed facing this pen.

All buffaloes are fed the same concentrates. Nutritional information for this concentrate can be found [[:File:Nutritional table Buffalo DAFHNE.docx|here]]. Amount of food and cup drops can be found here. The buffalo’s in the GF group get the concentrates from the GF and about 1 kg of concentrates during milking operations. The buffalo’s in the sniffer group only get concentrates from the milking robot, which is about 2 kg/head/day.

To account for the emissions recorded individually at different times, they compare the emissions data aggregated on a daily basis. They are using the GF adapted for large ruminants with horns

== GasToGrass ==
The aim of this project is to develop new breeding solutions for the industry by finding ways to identify animals with lower environmental impact, which can then be selected as part of genetic improvement programs. This project will contribute with new strategies to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, in sheep production systems. You can find more information on the [https://era-susan.eu/content/grasstogas-grass-gas-strategies-mitigate-ghg-emissions-pasture-based-sheep-systems website]

== MethaBreed ==
[[File:P-2025-1-15-2 FBF Logo MethaBreed Logo 01 4C-01 klein.png|thumb|170x170px]]
The MethaBreed project aims to improve the sustainability of dairy production by developing innovative breeding strategies for dairy cows that simultaneously reduce methane emissions, enhance feed efficiency, and support animal health. A large-scale longitudinal study is being conducted in commercial dairy herds. Using advanced technologies, individual cow traits are recorded across entire lactations and multiple lactation cycles. Data collection includes continuous monitoring of methane emissions using sniffers, feed intake (using CFIT: Cattle Feed Intake System), body weight (using CFIT and scales), and key health parameters. A particular focus lies on the role of the rumen microbiome in methane production. A central goal of MethaBreed is the development of a new breeding value for methane emissions, enabling the selection of animals with lower environmental impact. These data will be integrated with pedigree and genomic information to allow precise breeding decisions. At the same time, the existing breeding value for feed efficiency will be further refined. The outcomes of the project are expected to make a significant contribution towards more climate-friendly dairy production. In the long term, standardized breeding values will be provided, enabling breeding organizations and farmers to actively select for healthier, more efficient, and more sustainable dairy cows. For more information you can visit the following websites from the partners: [https://www.uni-giessen.de/de/fbz/fb09/institute/ith/ag-koenig/forschung/laufend/methabreed University Giessen], [https://www.fbf-forschung.de/aktuelles/methabreed-neues-forschungsprojekt-zur-reduzierung.html FBF], [https://livestock-functional-microbiology.uni-hohenheim.de/en/research-projects#jfmulticontent_c401477-2 University of Hohenheim.] Further partners are [https://www.vit.de/ vit] and [https://www.uni-kiel.de/de/aef/fakultaet/institute/tierzucht-tierhaltung University Kiel]. The project is funded by the German Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Regional Identity on the basis of a resolution of the German Bundestag. The project management is carried out by the Federal Office for Agriculture and Food (BLE) within the framework of the Federal Programme for Livestock Farming. Funding reference numbers: 28KTF23C01–05.

== breed4green ==
[[File:Logo B4G RZ RGB 1 Transparent.png|right|frameless|228x228px]]
Direct and indirect traits for feed efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions for breeding and herd management in cattle:

The [https://www.rinderzucht.at/projekt/breed4green.html breed4green] project focuses on researching strategies to reduce methane emissions and enhance feed efficiency within the Austrian cattle industry. Measurements of methane and CO2 emissions are conducted on both experimental and commercial farms using the GreenFeed system. The aim of the project is to collect methane and CO2 measurements of approximately 1,000 Fleckvieh and 200 Brown Swiss cows. In addition, various phenotypes such as health, body weight, BCS, metabolism, energy intake and milk mid infrared (MIR) spectra are recorded. Data on feed intake from experimental farms are also available for validation. The genetic potential of direct traits like methane, CO2 and feed efficiency, along with their correlations to health and other traits, will be analyzed. The project also includes the development and validation of MIR equations for emitted methane and energy balance. The focus will be on investigating the use of these indirect traits to reduce methane emissions and improve feed efficiency in breeding programs to pave the way for genomic selection. The results will also be used to optimize herd management. Furthermore, the environmental impact of relevant dairy and beef production systems in Austria will be investigated.

== Presentation materials ==

=== Seminar by Julius van der Werf: Breeding for a changing climate 13-05-2025 ===
On the 13th of May Julius van de Werf gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on selection indexes for selecting low methane livestock, focused on sheep. You can find the slides [[:File:20250513 Seminar J.v.d.Werf.pdf|here]]. You can find the recording of the presentation below.

<youtube>PxKmxKVvVEA?si=C6x0keKAvgU009Da</youtube>

=== Seminar by Maria Frizzarin: Introduction to milk mid-infrared spectroscopy 10-07-2025 ===
On the 10th of July Maria Frizzarin gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on milk mid-infrared spectroscopy, equations development, and applications. You can find the slides [[:File:10072025 Seminar Maria MIR.pdf|here.]]

=== Seminar by Sarah-Joe Burn: Breed4Green 25-09-2025 ===
On the 25th of September Sarah-Joe Burn gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on measuring methane emissions in commercial farms and establishing a comprehensive dataset for genetic studies. A similar presentations was given at EAAP 2025, you can find the slides to that presentation [[:File:Eaap2025-breed4green-linke.pdf|here]] and the abstract [[:File:2025 Innsbruck EAAP Book Abstracts.pdf|here]], page 250.

=== '''Seminar by Fazel Almasi: Measuring methane in dairy cows using Arcoflex sensors 25-09-2025''' ===
On the 25th of September Fazel Almasi gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on the repeatability and heritability of dairy cow methane concentration using sniffer sensors. You can find the slides to the presentation [[:File:FA-ArcoflexUpdate.pdf|here]].

=== Joint ICAR Feed&Gas and ASGGN workshop ===
On the 5th of October the joint workshop between the [https://www.icar.org/group/working-group-feed-and-gas/ ICAR Feed&Gas working group] and the [https://www.asggn.org/ ASGGN] took place before the GGAA conference in Nairobi. The presentations can be found below.

[[:File:2025 ASGGN - GGAA - A Taste of the Future Buccal Swabbing for Rumen Microbial ProfilingTB.pdf|A Taste of the Future: Buccal Swabbing for Rumen Microbial Profiling]]. Presented by Ben Perry ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:2638 Booker ILRI GGAA ASGGN Oct 2025.pdf|Rate of Genetic Gain for Methane Emissions in a Maternal Production Flock]]. Presented by Fem Booker ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:Boris ICAR2025 v01.pdf|Association between rumen and faecal microbiome and enteric methane emissions in dairy cattle]]. Presented by Boris Sepulveda ([https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/ AV])

[[:File:CaeliRichardson GGAA Workshop 2025.pdf|Global Framework to Monitor, Measure, and Account for Methane Reductions from Genetic Selection]]. Presented by Caeli Richardson ([https://abacusbio.com/ Abacusbio])

[[:File:GGAA Workshop ICAR and ASGGN Ida Storm.pdf|Danish Perspectives on implementation of GHG regulation]]. Presented by Ida Storm ([https://agricultureandfood.dk/ DAFG])

[[:File:GGAA Workshop ICAR and ASGGN Rasmus Stephansen.pdf|Experience with CH4 sniffers, what have we learned so far?]] Presented by Rasmus Stephansen ([https://international.au.dk/ AU])

[[:File:GGAA workshop MIR methane presentation.pdf|Overview of the methane equations developed from mid-infrared spectroscopy and their applications.]] Presented by Maria Frizzarin ([https://www.agroscope.admin.ch/agroscope/en/home.html Agroscope])

[[:File:HanneHonerlagen ICARpresentation.pdf|Adding microbial data to enhance breeding for lower methane emissions]]. Presented by Hanne Honerlagen ([https://www.wur.nl/en/research-results/chair-groups/animal-sciences/animal-breeding-and-genomics-group.htm WUR-ABG])

[[:File:McNaughton ASGGN Workshop final.pdf|GreenFeed for phenotyping – our experiences]]. Presented by Lorna McNaughton ([https://www.lic.co.nz/ LIC])

[[:File:MIE ILRI GGAA ASGGN Oct 2025.pdf|Methane Index Explorer: Optimising a Breeding Value Format for Simultaneous Inclusion of Enteric Methane Emissions in Breeding Schemes and National Inventories]]. Presented by Pavithra Ariyarathne ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:RiccardoGGAA Presentation RB.pdf|ZELP sense]]. Presented by Riccardo Bica ([https://www.zelp.co/ ZELP])

[[:File:ICAR Working group Nairobi 5 Oct2025.pdf|Selection for lower methane livestock, selection index considerations]]. Presented by Julius van der Werf (UNE)

Measuring enteric methane in beef and dairy cattle using PAC. Presented by Timothy Bilton ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])<youtube>https://youtu.be/NjPuotrmkMQ</youtube>

Estimating methane emissions with the GreenFeed System. Presented by Paul Smith ([https://teagasc.ie/ Teagasc]) <youtube>https://youtu.be/TnHefWoP29I</youtube>

Section 20: Activities

2026-01-30T09:34:17Z

Cvangemert: WG meetings added and restructured

<center>
<big>
NOTE: This version of Section 20 has been approved by the working group's Chair. Please be aware that further revisions may occur before final review and approval by the Board and ICAR members per the [[Approval of Page Process]].

</big>
</center>
== Global Methane Genetics ==
[[File:GMG label.png|right|frameless|300x300px]]
The Global Methane Genetics (GMG) initiative is a global program to accelerate genetic progress in methane emission in ruminants in the Global North and South. This WUR-ABG coordinated initiative is funded by the [https://www.globalmethanehub.org/ Global Methane Hub] and the [https://www.bezosearthfund.org/ Bezos Earth Fund,] both based on philanthropic funds to support methane mitigation and prevent global warming. If you have questions about the [https://www.wur.nl/en/project/global-methane-genetics-initiative.htm GMG initiative] you can send an email to gmg@wur.nl, contact Roel Veerkamp: roel.veerkamp@wur.nl or Birgit Gredler-Grandl: birgit.gredler-grandl@wur.nl.

The initiative holds the following projects:

=== '''Dairy Cattle''' ===
We can look to nature to reduce CH4 emissions and use genetic diversity to provide solutions. Genetic improvement, based on identifying animals with genetic predisposition for lower CH4 output and using them to breed for the next generations, is a reliable, cost-effective, and permanent method for transforming livestock's impact on the environment. Breeding programs in dairy cattle are run within breeds and across countries. Therefore, the program will accelerate genetic progress by focusing on four major dairy breeds and organizations and countries involved in those breeds. Additionally, the program will acquire considerable leverage through investments in these countries. If you have questions about the dairy cattle section you can contact Birgit Gredler-Grandl: birgit.gredler-grandl@wur.nl.

==== ''Holstein breed'' ====
The largest data collection has been for the Holstein breed, but there is a lack of standardization and protocols in terms of equipment and its utilization (farm level, data processing, data sharing agreements, genetic evaluations, and data collections). Governments and breeding organizations in Denmark and the Netherlands will collaborate and collect methane and genotypes on more than 20,000 Holstein cows for the GMG database. Also, Poland and Italy team up to collect data for the GMG database, and their aim is also to collect more than 20,000 Holstein animals and develop genetic evaluations across a wide range of systems.

===== Denmark-The Netherlands =====
This collaboration between Aarhus University and Wageningen Livestock Research has five main goals. The contact person for questions about this project is Trine Villumsen: tmv@qgg.au.dk.

* Setting up Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for measuring methane using sniffers
* Setting up international protocols to measure methane on commercial farms
* Develop software tools to automate the processing of data into a phenotype
* Combine historical data in both countries for genetic evaluations
* Measure enteric methane in 20.000 new cows.

===== Poland-Italy =====
This collaboration has the following main goals. The contact person for questions about this project is Raffaella Finocchiaro raffaellafinocchiaro@anafibj.it.

* Measure enteric methane in 20.000 new cows.

==== ''Jersey breed'' ====
Currently, due to the limited data available, the Jersey dairy breed does not have breeding values for methane (CH4) mitigation. The goal of the program is to collect methane genotypes in Canada and Denmark and share this information with the GMG database. The aim is to develop breeding values that will be distributed through the World Jersey Cattle Bureau organization and national Jersey organizations in Australia, Canada, Switzerland, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and New Zealand. If you have questions about the Jersey breed section you can contact Rasmus Bak Stephansen rasmus.stephansen@qgg.au.dk

==== ''Brown Swiss breed'' ====
The Brown Swiss (BS) breed faces significant challenges due to its small population size, an divers environments the animals are kept. A collaboration between Germany, Switzerland, and Austria to phenotype enough animals is a prerequisite for utilizing the genetic potential of reducing methane emission of the BS breed. In addition to a population of 250 cows recorded with Greenfeed, and 1250 with the sniffer, progress will be accelerated by recording an additional 3,360 cows with sniffers. If you have questions about the Brown Swiss breed section you can contact Elena Frenken: fe@fbf-forschung.de.

==== ''Red breeds'' ====
The red breeds are important for crossbreeding in many countries around the world. The project aims to share and collect CH4 data from Red Dairy Cattle (RDC) breeds (in the Nordic countries, Canada, and the United Kingdom (UK)) and share it with the Global Methane Genetics (GMG) Hub. Together, they will set up a shared genetic evaluation for bulls used for crossbreeding in many more countries. If you have questions about the Red breed section you can contact Elisenda Rius-Vilarrasa: Elisenda.Rius-Vilarrasa@vxa.se.

=== '''Beef Cattle''' ===

==== ''Bluegrass (global beef)'' ====
All industries world-wide have been challenged with reducing emissions and beef is no exception. Genetic selection and specifically genomic selection have been identified as key tools to help meet this challenge. Methane emissions are not a local problem, but a global one and several major beef producing countries who exchange genetic material have, are, and will be collecting methane phenotypes for the purpose of genomic prediction. Individually (including those in Australia), these datasets will be limited in their genomic prediction accuracy. The BLUEGRASS alliance will bring together the key players globally, who collectively have solicited key seed funding from the Global Methane Hub. By sharing data and resources, the development of necessary reference populations will be accelerated. Locally or globally, success in the beef genetics industry has been a model of ‘co-opetition’. Breeders, although competitors, pool resources to build tools that can be used by all to compete with one another. This BLUEGRASS alliance is no different. A global alliance will come together to address this challenge, with or without Australia. Having Australia lead and ignite the alliance with MDC co-funding will create opportunities to direct this global initiative and provide first mover advantages for Australian breeders.

The program is focused on building genomic reference datasets for the main beef breeds in the collaborating countries. The animals to be recorded will be intensively recorded for other production traits, and genotyped, outside this project itself. In each country, trial or research breeding values will be produced and delivered to industry during the life of the project – enabling genetic selection against methane to get underway, and the data will underpin the ability to genomically screen the entire populations of the breeds involved in the respective countries i.e. all seedstock and commercial animals. The data collected will likely assist development of genomic selection against methane in other countries. The accelerated genetic selection and the commercial animal screening will enable real impact to reduce methane from beef cattle. If you have questions about the bluegrass project specifically, you can contact Steve Miller, steve.miller@une.edu.au

===== Number of phenotypes =====
This project will phenotype methane traits in beef cattle populations in the US, Australia, the UK, Ireland, and New Zealand. Around 18.500 phenotypes will be collected over all years and countries. It is estimated that around 7.000 phenotypes will be collected in Australia, around 1.600 in New Zealand, around 800 in the UK, around 2.000 in Ireland and around 7.00 in the USA.
===== Breeds and traits included =====
All countries included in the Bluegrass project have different breeds and different target traits included in their measurements, besides the methane phenotypes.

Australia will focus on Angus and Hereford seedstock with a research population of Angus, Wagyu, Charolais, Shorthorn and Brahman being a target as well. For the seedstock they will focus on seedstock traits plus methane measurements using PAC measures. For the research populations on seedstock traits plus feed intake, carcass as well as methane measurements with PAC.

For New Zealand priority is the progeny test herds. These are mostly Angus, Hereford and their crosses, including a diallel cross design. Some Angus x Simmental. Complete requirements with seedstock herds of Angus and Hereford. Focus is on the following: progeny test, seedstock traits, conception date (via fetal aging) from natural mate at yearling (then re-breeding), carcass grading on steers, feed intake on heifers, rumen microbiome on steers and heifers, seedstock traits from seedstock herds

For the UK focus lies on Angus and Hereford sired animals, both pedigree and crossbred (including from dairy dams) and they focus on liveweights.

For Ireland they include multi-breed/crossbreed. 30% Charolais and Limousin sired from Continental type suckler dams, 30% Holstein-Friesian and 40% beef (mostly Angus) cross dairy. They will focus on feed intake, liveweight and carcass data.

The USA will be measuring Angus focused on seedstock traits from seedstock herds.

==== ''US beef'' ====
This project will accelerate genetic selection for reduced methane emissions from U.S. and Canadian beef cattle, through phenotyping and genotyping the 18 most influential beef breeds in North America.

The primary activities of this project will center on phenotyping and genetic evaluation of the Germplasm Evaluation (GPE) herd, a large, multibreed resource population at the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) in Nebraska, USA. This herd is structured to represent the genetic diversity of the 18 most influential beef breeds in the U.S.. These 18 breeds are: Angus, Red Angus, Hereford, South Devon, Shorthorn, Beefmaster, Brangus, Brahman, Santa Gertrudis, Braunvieh, ChiAngus, Charolais, Gelbvieh, Limousin, Maine-Anjou, Salers, Simmental, Tarentaise.

Recording of methane phenotypes will occur using multiple approaches to not only maximize the number of phenotypes collected, but to also offer a comparison between methodologies within a U.S. beef production system. Based on these findings and in coordination with other GMG project teams, standard operating procedures for methane phenotyping of beef cattle will be developed and integrated into the [https://beefimprovement.org/resource-center/bif-guidelines/ Guidelines for Uniform Beef Improvement Programs] supporting the evolution of these approaches into standard practice and routine evaluation in any beef breeding system. If you have questions about the US beef project specifically, you can contact Matthew Spangler, mspangler2@unl.edu.

===== Main goals =====
* Recording methane phenotypes from at least 5,500 multi-breed genotyped beef cattle and openly sharing to the GMG database and the public domain.
* Development and publication of uniform guidelines for both methane phenotyping in beef cattle systems and the integration of methane phenotypes into beef genetic evaluations, through the BIF Guidelines wiki.
* Dissemination and routine updating of genetic parameter and genomic marker effects critical for the development of genetic selection tools and deployment of methane-reducing breeding programs.

=== '''Sheep''' ===
This project focusses on recording methane phenotypes on animals in various populations, e.g. Merino, Texel, Dohne, Corriedale, maternal and terminal. In each case, those animals will be recorded for a range of other production, health, product quality and welfare traits (the exact suite of traits varies between countries). This ensures that it will be possible to determine the genetic relationships between methane traits and the other traits included in current and future selection indexes and breeding programs – meaning that breeders will be able to make informed decisions on any trade-offs between methane and other traits. In total around 16.600 methane phenotypes will be collected over all years and countries. It is estimated that around 7.500 methane phenotypes will be collected in Australia, 3.000 in Uruguay, 4.000 in New Zealand, 1.200 in the UK and 1.000 in the UK. If you have questions about the sheep project specifically, you can contact Daniel Brown, dbrown2@une.edu.au
==== Main goals ====
* Phenotyping and reference populations. Fast tracked phenotyping and genotyping up to 16,000 records of methane traits across the key countries to facilitate accurate international evaluation of animals (Table 2).
* Genetic evaluation and models. Breeding values based on international genomic evaluation models to share the benefits of the established reference populations.
* Proxies. Development and validation of new phenotyping methods to expedite genetic progress.
* Breeding Programs. Whole farm system models to incorporate methane into breeding objectives in a balanced way and indexes to facilitate selection of breeding candidates.
* Education and adoption. Stakeholder engagement campaign and international development to ensure world-wide impact.

=== '''Africa''' ===
This project focused on three regions of Africa (Eastern, Western and Southern Africa). It will will leverage and accelerate on-going early research on GHG in these regions, strongly build capacity and team up with researchers to record CH4, other economic productive traits and use the records to implement breeding strategies to reduce CH4 emission while simultaneously enhancing productivity, food security and employment opportunities in the dairy and beef cattle farming systems; The source of livelihood for many poorly resourced farmers.

Tapping into the existing breeding program infrastructure for improved productivity for dairy cattle in the three regions of Africa, this project will result in overall program that will accelerate genetic progress through focus on phenotyping, genotyping and the use of information from the microbiome in the genetic selection of animals in the smallholder dairy system. The overall impact will be better mitigation of negative effects of climate change and more productive cows. Through selection programs based on the index developed with the phenotypic and genomic information from this project.

The major activities include the direct CH4 measurements on about 1.655 tropical cattle using [[Greenfeed SOP|GreenFeed]] and the use of [[Laser Methane Detector|LMD]] in smallholder farmers. Genotypic information and phenotypes captured routinely on major important productive traits that influence profitability, income and livelihood of farmers on 1.619 animals. Data sets will be linked to a larger existing data on 9.000 cows with phenotypic and genotypic information from existing projects. If you have questions about the Africa project specifically, you can contact Raphael Mrode, raphael.mrode@sruc.ac.uk

==== Main goals ====

* Methane measurements available on 1.655 tropical cows.
* Tissue samples and genotypes available on 1.619 tropical cows.
* Genetic relationship between dairy cows in Western and Eastern Africa estimated.
* Multi-trait genomic analysis of dairy data and methane in Eastern Africa.
* Incorporate existing data on over 9.000 cows from existing research projects to enhance genomic prediction.
* Computation and the roll out of final selection index or sub-indexes developed for improved efficiency - reduced CH4 emission, lower maintenance requirement and increased milk production.

=== '''Latin America''' ===
The aim of this project is to accelerate the reduction of enteric methane emissions in beef cattle in Latin America through genetic selection in key breeds relevant to Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, and Mexico. The focus will be on phenotyping methane emissions and genotyping animals linked to existing genetic improvement programs. Reference populations for genomic selection will be the basis to improve the estimation of genetic merit and select for lower emission. The link with ongoing genetic improvement programs provides data on other economically relevant production traits, thus making it possible to estimate genetic correlations and optimize methane emission reductions with a minimum impact on livestock productivity. This approach minimizes negative impacts on food production while preserving economic, social, and environmental sustainability of beef cattle farming. This collaborative project between national agricultural research institutes (NARI) is supported by breeders’ associations and other key stakeholders. Public-private partnerships and collaborative efforts will scale genetic evaluation for methane emissions as well as the use of lower methane emission genetics on commercial farms. Phenotypic and genomic data from approximately 7.000 animals will be made globally available. In synergy with other projects, it will be possible to increase the size of reference populations leading to an even greater impact on methane emissions mitigation. If you have questions about the Latin America project specifically, you can contact Elly Navajas, enavajas@inia.org.uy

For developing methane emission phenotyping platforms and reference populations, it is essential to upgrade methane emission recording equipment as well as standardize and coordinate the measurement of animals. Standardized protocols will be developed in collaboration with ICAR, and the criteria for selecting animals to be measured and genotyped will be established by the research team, including technicians from breeder associations. A critical component of the project involves genetic analyses, such as estimating genetic parameters for methane emission-related traits, validating breeding values in additional populations, and evaluating the impact of selecting for reduced methane emissions. Scientific collaboration will be fostered with other beef cattle projects, focusing on areas such as expertise exchange. Communication strategies will be implemented to engage stakeholders, including breeders, artificial insemination centers, policymakers, and other private stakeholders. Dialogue with teams managing greenhouse gas (GHG) inventories and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) will also be enhanced. These activities require active collaboration among countries and stakeholders in Latin America to achieve successful outcomes.

==== Main goals ====

* A Latin American collaborative network for accelerating genetic improvement for methane emissions reduction is established by NARIs, universities, breeder societies, and private stakeholders engaged in genetic evaluation programs across South America and Mexico.
* Methane emission phenotyping platforms are implemented, enabling data collection across key beef cattle breeds, targeting 7.000 methane emission phenotypes and genotypes of animals linked to genetic evaluations.
* Genomic-enhanced estimated breeding values for methane emissions will be available to breeders: based on pure-breed and multi-breed reference populations enhanced through collaboration and data sharing across beef cattle projects within the GMG initiative.
* The economic and environmental impact of breeding strategies to reduce methane emissions is assessed, to identify the most promising breeding strategies to accelerate methane emission reduction. The development of breeding objectives combining methane emission reduction with production goals will support policy and incentives for breeders and farmers to overcome adoption barriers and integrate the results into national GHG inventories.

=== '''Microbiome''' ===
The micro-HUB project will establish a reference population with metagenome and genotype data, and create a genomic evaluation system that can be used to select the parents of the next generation with microbiome profiles that produce less enteric methane while maintaining genetic progress in profit and health. The genomic evaluation system will be widely open, will target most relevant breeds and production systems. Furthermore, a large global microbiome network will be established to collect existing data and knowledge and ensure knowledge transfer.

This project will start with metagenome and genomic data on 5.430 individuals from the core project partners, we will explore the opportunity to extend and expand our reference population to other countries with suitable data. By combining national data sets with genotypes, microbiome and methane information, we aim to create the largest rumen microbiome reference population globally. We aim to enlarge the reference population by more than 20.000 microbiome sequenced dairy and beef cattle as well as sheep from the Global Methane Genetics (GMG) program. From this, we will facilitate the delivery of genomic breeding values that can be used in global breeding programs to select for a microbiome composition with lower emissions and reduce the abundance of methanogenic pathways in the rumen microbiome of future generations of cattle and sheep. The project partners cover beef, dairy and sheep populations and creates an opportunity to identify a core microbiome (or set of cores) that can be used as a reference for nation-based breeding programs. The project will closely connect to the other projects within the Global Methane Program, to facilitate microbiome sampling, sequencing and genomic analysis. If you have questions about the microbiome project specifically, you can contact Oscar Gonzalez-Recio, oscar.gonzalezrecio@ed.ac.uk

==== Activities ====
To enlarge the national database partners will obtain additional samples from animals with methane and genotype data from different breeds and production systems within the GMG phenotyping program (dairy and beef cattle). The inclusion of samples from external partners will be encouraged. Partners (also external) will be provided with instruction to collect data and sample rumen microbiome. The micro-Hub will provide stewardship for GMG partners regarding sampling, storage and shipping, as well as bioinformatic analysis. Rumen metagenome sequencing will be centralized in as fewer labs as possible (ideally only one).

Reference populations from partners will be combined, covering a broad range of breeds and productions systems and different geographical regions. Format of the databases will be unified. The combined dataset will be used for the microbiome genomic evaluations. The reference database will be updated with additional data coming from external partners.

We will develop the capabilities to estimate the genomic breeding value for microbiome composition for any genotyped animal in similar productive conditions as those represented in our reference population. The goal is to propose recommendations based on own experience to include estimated genomic breeding values for rumen microbiome profile in breeding programs.

The project will contribute to the activities organized within Global Methane Genetics and the ICAR Feed&Gas working group in building a microbiome network to exchange knowledge, harmonize guidelines and develop protocols. All data generated within the project will be made available through the Global Methane Genetics database. The project will collaborate with the database development to develop microbiome sharing requirements and specifications.

==== Main goals ====

* Joint reference metagenome compiled.
* Microbiome genomic evaluations.
* Release of SNP coefficients for international genomic evaluations for microbiome compositions.
* Network building and establishment of platform for rumen metagenome data.

=== '''Working Group meetings''' ===

The six working groups as described above meet two times a year. The GMG working group meetings are aimed to share updates about the GMG projects and discuss gaps, needs and bottlenecks in the field.

==== Dairy Cattle ====
15 May 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:250515 GMG meeting Dairy Working Group.pdf|here.]]

27 October 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20251027 GMG Working group Dairy meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Sheep ====
20 May 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20250520 Meeting GMG Working group sheep.pdf|here.]]

11 November 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20251111 Sheep Working Group GMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

==== Microbiome ====
23 May 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:202505 Global Meeting Genetics Microbiome working group meeting.pdf|here.]]

27 November 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20251127 GMG Microbiome WG presentation.pdf|here.]]

==== Latin America ====
5 June 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:202506 Presentation GMG Working Group Latin America meeting.pdf|here.]]

14 November 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20251114 Latin America GMG Work group meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Africa ====
23 May 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20250523 GMG Working group Africa meeting.pdf|here.]]

7 November 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20251107 Africa Workgroup GMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

==== Beef ====
17 June 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:202506 GMG Working group Beef meeting.pdf|here.]]

11 November 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20251106 GMG Working group Beef meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Asia ====
1 July 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:20250701 AsiaGMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

25 November 2025: Presentation materials [[:File:GMG Asia From data to impact.pdf|here]], [[:File:Asia 20251105.pdf|here]], [[:File:2511 GMG Asia MethaneMethods.pdf|here]] and [[:File:ILRI LMD Exp 2025.pdf|here]].

==== Webinars ====
On the 22th of May 2025 there was a webinar for all GMG project participants on effective records in the database, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:250515 GMG meeting Dairy Working Group.pdf|here.]]

== DAFNE ==
Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences at the University of Tuscia. Their main purpose is to collect primary emissions data from sniffers and GF to have emissions factors related to the species, breed, physiological state and diet management. They are engaged with ANAFIBJ and sharing data related to Holstein cattle with them for genetic evaluations. Currently they are running trials with sheep and buffalo.

=== Sheep ===
For this trial they are comparing 2 grazing methods using 2 groups of Sopravissana sheep, reared at the facility.

# Rotational, 18 sheep. Turns every 4 days on strip paddocks. 18 paddocks in total; 6 heads on 3 strip paddocks per turn of grazing. After 24 days the sheep are back to the first three strips.
# Continuous, 18 sheep. Continuous grazing on same paddock. 3 paddocks in total; 6 heads per paddock.

Subgroups for both group A and B (6 heads) are randomly arranged every day. The 18 strip paddocks are the same total size as the three continuous paddocks. They have the same number of heads grazing and the same live weight load.

Both groups are balanced for BW, receive the same hay in quantity and quality with ad libitum access and spend the same time at pasture. Daily sampling of the hay and residual per group is done, weekly sub samples of hay and residual are analyzed. In parallel fresh grass is sampled and analyzed to represent the 2 grazing methods.

The GreenFeed is located in the barn, at 9AM this barn is closed for group A and opens for group B and this switches every day. The GreenFeed is the only place they can get concentrates. Nutritional information for this concentrate can be found [[:File:Nutritional table sheep DAFHNE.docx|here]]. Amount of food and cup drops can be found here.

Trial started end of March 2025 and will last 1.5 months. They are using the GF adapted for small ruminants.

=== Buffalo ===
This is a continuous trial which will last 4 months per supplement tested. First they monitor the buffalo for 4 weeks without supplement as a control diet and then there will be an 8 week experimental period with the supplement diet. During the entire period the buffalo are confined to the barn.

The buffalo are separated in two groups, in adjacent pens. One group has access to a milking robot, with the MooLogger from [[Sniffer SOP|Tecnosens.]] The other pen has a conventional milking system and the GreenFeed is placed facing this pen.

All buffaloes are fed the same concentrates. Nutritional information for this concentrate can be found [[:File:Nutritional table Buffalo DAFHNE.docx|here]]. Amount of food and cup drops can be found here. The buffalo’s in the GF group get the concentrates from the GF and about 1 kg of concentrates during milking operations. The buffalo’s in the sniffer group only get concentrates from the milking robot, which is about 2 kg/head/day.

To account for the emissions recorded individually at different times, they compare the emissions data aggregated on a daily basis. They are using the GF adapted for large ruminants with horns

== MethaBreed ==
[[File:P-2025-1-15-2 FBF Logo MethaBreed Logo 01 4C-01 klein.png|thumb|170x170px]]
The MethaBreed project aims to improve the sustainability of dairy production by developing innovative breeding strategies for dairy cows that simultaneously reduce methane emissions, enhance feed efficiency, and support animal health. A large-scale longitudinal study is being conducted in commercial dairy herds. Using advanced technologies, individual cow traits are recorded across entire lactations and multiple lactation cycles. Data collection includes continuous monitoring of methane emissions using sniffers, feed intake (using CFIT: Cattle Feed Intake System), body weight (using CFIT and scales), and key health parameters. A particular focus lies on the role of the rumen microbiome in methane production. A central goal of MethaBreed is the development of a new breeding value for methane emissions, enabling the selection of animals with lower environmental impact. These data will be integrated with pedigree and genomic information to allow precise breeding decisions. At the same time, the existing breeding value for feed efficiency will be further refined. The outcomes of the project are expected to make a significant contribution towards more climate-friendly dairy production. In the long term, standardized breeding values will be provided, enabling breeding organizations and farmers to actively select for healthier, more efficient, and more sustainable dairy cows. For more information you can visit the following websites from the partners: [https://www.uni-giessen.de/de/fbz/fb09/institute/ith/ag-koenig/forschung/laufend/methabreed University Giessen], [https://www.fbf-forschung.de/aktuelles/methabreed-neues-forschungsprojekt-zur-reduzierung.html FBF], [https://livestock-functional-microbiology.uni-hohenheim.de/en/research-projects#jfmulticontent_c401477-2 University of Hohenheim.] Further partners are [https://www.vit.de/ vit] and [https://www.uni-kiel.de/de/aef/fakultaet/institute/tierzucht-tierhaltung University Kiel]. The project is funded by the German Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Regional Identity on the basis of a resolution of the German Bundestag. The project management is carried out by the Federal Office for Agriculture and Food (BLE) within the framework of the Federal Programme for Livestock Farming. Funding reference numbers: 28KTF23C01–05.

== breed4green ==
[[File:Logo B4G RZ RGB 1 Transparent.png|right|frameless|228x228px]]
Direct and indirect traits for feed efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions for breeding and herd management in cattle:

The [https://www.rinderzucht.at/projekt/breed4green.html breed4green] project focuses on researching strategies to reduce methane emissions and enhance feed efficiency within the Austrian cattle industry. Measurements of methane and CO2 emissions are conducted on both experimental and commercial farms using the GreenFeed system. The aim of the project is to collect methane and CO2 measurements of approximately 1,000 Fleckvieh and 200 Brown Swiss cows. In addition, various phenotypes such as health, body weight, BCS, metabolism, energy intake and milk mid infrared (MIR) spectra are recorded. Data on feed intake from experimental farms are also available for validation. The genetic potential of direct traits like methane, CO2 and feed efficiency, along with their correlations to health and other traits, will be analyzed. The project also includes the development and validation of MIR equations for emitted methane and energy balance. The focus will be on investigating the use of these indirect traits to reduce methane emissions and improve feed efficiency in breeding programs to pave the way for genomic selection. The results will also be used to optimize herd management. Furthermore, the environmental impact of relevant dairy and beef production systems in Austria will be investigated.

== Presentation materials ==

=== Seminar by Julius van der Werf: Breeding for a changing climate 13-05-2025 ===
On the 13th of May Julius van de Werf gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on selection indexes for selecting low methane livestock, focused on sheep. You can find the slides [[:File:20250513 Seminar J.v.d.Werf.pdf|here]]. You can find the recording of the presentation below.

<youtube>PxKmxKVvVEA?si=C6x0keKAvgU009Da</youtube>

=== Seminar by Maria Frizzarin: Introduction to milk mid-infrared spectroscopy 10-07-2025 ===
On the 10th of July Maria Frizzarin gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on milk mid-infrared spectroscopy, equations development, and applications. You can find the slides [[:File:10072025 Seminar Maria MIR.pdf|here.]]

=== Seminar by Sarah-Joe Burn: Breed4Green 25-09-2025 ===
On the 25th of September Sarah-Joe Burn gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on measuring methane emissions in commercial farms and establishing a comprehensive dataset for genetic studies. A similar presentations was given at EAAP 2025, you can find the slides to that presentation [[:File:Eaap2025-breed4green-linke.pdf|here]] and the abstract [[:File:2025 Innsbruck EAAP Book Abstracts.pdf|here]], page 250.

=== Joint ICAR Feed&Gas and ASGGN workshop ===
On the 5th of October the joint workshop between the [https://www.icar.org/group/working-group-feed-and-gas/ ICAR Feed&Gas working group] and the [https://www.asggn.org/ ASGGN] took place before the GGAA conference in Nairobi. The presentations can be found below.

[[:File:2025 ASGGN - GGAA - A Taste of the Future Buccal Swabbing for Rumen Microbial ProfilingTB.pdf|A Taste of the Future: Buccal Swabbing for Rumen Microbial Profiling]]. Presented by Ben Perry ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:2638 Booker ILRI GGAA ASGGN Oct 2025.pdf|Rate of Genetic Gain for Methane Emissions in a Maternal Production Flock]]. Presented by Fem Booker ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:Boris ICAR2025 v01.pdf|Association between rumen and faecal microbiome and enteric methane emissions in dairy cattle]]. Presented by Boris Sepulveda ([https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/ AV])

[[:File:CaeliRichardson GGAA Workshop 2025.pdf|Global Framework to Monitor, Measure, and Account for Methane Reductions from Genetic Selection]]. Presented by Caeli Richardson ([https://abacusbio.com/ Abacusbio])

[[:File:GGAA Workshop ICAR and ASGGN Ida Storm.pdf|Danish Perspectives on implementation of GHG regulation]]. Presented by Ida Storm ([https://agricultureandfood.dk/ DAFG])

[[:File:GGAA Workshop ICAR and ASGGN Rasmus Stephansen.pdf|Experience with CH4 sniffers, what have we learned so far?]] Presented by Rasmus Stephansen ([https://international.au.dk/ AU])

[[:File:GGAA workshop MIR methane presentation.pdf|Overview of the methane equations developed from mid-infrared spectroscopy and their applications.]] Presented by Maria Frizzarin ([https://www.agroscope.admin.ch/agroscope/en/home.html Agroscope])

[[:File:HanneHonerlagen ICARpresentation.pdf|Adding microbial data to enhance breeding for lower methane emissions]]. Presented by Hanne Honerlagen ([https://www.wur.nl/en/research-results/chair-groups/animal-sciences/animal-breeding-and-genomics-group.htm WUR-ABG])

[[:File:McNaughton ASGGN Workshop final.pdf|GreenFeed for phenotyping – our experiences]]. Presented by Lorna McNaughton ([https://www.lic.co.nz/ LIC])

[[:File:MIE ILRI GGAA ASGGN Oct 2025.pdf|Methane Index Explorer: Optimising a Breeding Value Format for Simultaneous Inclusion of Enteric Methane Emissions in Breeding Schemes and National Inventories]]. Presented by Pavithra Ariyarathne ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:RiccardoGGAA Presentation RB.pdf|ZELP sense]]. Presented by Riccardo Bica ([https://www.zelp.co/ ZELP])

[[:File:ICAR Working group Nairobi 5 Oct2025.pdf|Selection for lower methane livestock, selection index considerations]]. Presented by Julius van der Werf (UNE)

Measuring enteric methane in beef and dairy cattle using PAC. Presented by Timothy Bilton ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])<youtube>https://youtu.be/NjPuotrmkMQ</youtube>

Estimating methane emissions with the GreenFeed System. Presented by Paul Smith ([https://teagasc.ie/ Teagasc]) <youtube>https://youtu.be/TnHefWoP29I</youtube>

Section 20: Activities

2026-01-20T09:03:31Z

Cvangemert: /* Presentation materials */ added breed4green

<center>
<big>
NOTE: This version of Section 20 has been approved by the working group's Chair. Please be aware that further revisions may occur before final review and approval by the Board and ICAR members per the [[Approval of Page Process]].

</big>
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== Global Methane Genetics ==
[[File:GMG label.png|right|frameless|300x300px]]
The Global Methane Genetics (GMG) initiative is a global program to accelerate genetic progress in methane emission in ruminants in the Global North and South. This WUR-ABG coordinated initiative is funded by the [https://www.globalmethanehub.org/ Global Methane Hub] and the [https://www.bezosearthfund.org/ Bezos Earth Fund,] both based on philanthropic funds to support methane mitigation and prevent global warming. If you have questions about the [https://www.wur.nl/en/project/global-methane-genetics-initiative.htm GMG initiative] you can send an email to gmg@wur.nl, contact Roel Veerkamp: roel.veerkamp@wur.nl or Birgit Gredler-Grandl: birgit.gredler-grandl@wur.nl.

The initiative holds the following projects:

=== '''Dairy Cattle''' ===
We can look to nature to reduce CH4 emissions and use genetic diversity to provide solutions. Genetic improvement, based on identifying animals with genetic predisposition for lower CH4 output and using them to breed for the next generations, is a reliable, cost-effective, and permanent method for transforming livestock's impact on the environment. Breeding programs in dairy cattle are run within breeds and across countries. Therefore, the program will accelerate genetic progress by focusing on four major dairy breeds and organizations and countries involved in those breeds. Additionally, the program will acquire considerable leverage through investments in these countries. If you have questions about the dairy cattle section you can contact Birgit Gredler-Grandl: birgit.gredler-grandl@wur.nl.

==== ''Holstein breed'' ====
The largest data collection has been for the Holstein breed, but there is a lack of standardization and protocols in terms of equipment and its utilization (farm level, data processing, data sharing agreements, genetic evaluations, and data collections). Governments and breeding organizations in Denmark and the Netherlands will collaborate and collect methane and genotypes on more than 20,000 Holstein cows for the GMG database. Also, Poland and Italy team up to collect data for the GMG database, and their aim is also to collect more than 20,000 Holstein animals and develop genetic evaluations across a wide range of systems.

===== Denmark-The Netherlands =====
This collaboration between Aarhus University and Wageningen Livestock Research has five main goals. The contact person for questions about this project is Trine Villumsen: tmv@qgg.au.dk.

* Setting up Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for measuring methane using sniffers
* Setting up international protocols to measure methane on commercial farms
* Develop software tools to automate the processing of data into a phenotype
* Combine historical data in both countries for genetic evaluations
* Measure enteric methane in 20.000 new cows.

===== Poland-Italy =====
This collaboration has the following main goals. The contact person for questions about this project is Raffaella Finocchiaro raffaellafinocchiaro@anafibj.it.

* Measure enteric methane in 20.000 new cows.

==== ''Jersey breed'' ====
Currently, due to the limited data available, the Jersey dairy breed does not have breeding values for methane (CH4) mitigation. The goal of the program is to collect methane genotypes in Canada and Denmark and share this information with the GMG database. The aim is to develop breeding values that will be distributed through the World Jersey Cattle Bureau organization and national Jersey organizations in Australia, Canada, Switzerland, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and New Zealand. If you have questions about the Jersey breed section you can contact Rasmus Bak Stephansen rasmus.stephansen@qgg.au.dk

==== ''Brown Swiss breed'' ====
The Brown Swiss (BS) breed faces significant challenges due to its small population size, an divers environments the animals are kept. A collaboration between Germany, Switzerland, and Austria to phenotype enough animals is a prerequisite for utilizing the genetic potential of reducing methane emission of the BS breed. In addition to a population of 250 cows recorded with Greenfeed, and 1250 with the sniffer, progress will be accelerated by recording an additional 3,360 cows with sniffers. If you have questions about the Brown Swiss breed section you can contact Elena Frenken: fe@fbf-forschung.de.

==== ''Red breeds'' ====
The red breeds are important for crossbreeding in many countries around the world. The project aims to share and collect CH4 data from Red Dairy Cattle (RDC) breeds (in the Nordic countries, Canada, and the United Kingdom (UK)) and share it with the Global Methane Genetics (GMG) Hub. Together, they will set up a shared genetic evaluation for bulls used for crossbreeding in many more countries. If you have questions about the Red breed section you can contact Elisenda Rius-Vilarrasa: Elisenda.Rius-Vilarrasa@vxa.se.

=== '''Beef Cattle''' ===

==== ''Bluegrass (global beef)'' ====
All industries world-wide have been challenged with reducing emissions and beef is no exception. Genetic selection and specifically genomic selection have been identified as key tools to help meet this challenge. Methane emissions are not a local problem, but a global one and several major beef producing countries who exchange genetic material have, are, and will be collecting methane phenotypes for the purpose of genomic prediction. Individually (including those in Australia), these datasets will be limited in their genomic prediction accuracy. The BLUEGRASS alliance will bring together the key players globally, who collectively have solicited key seed funding from the Global Methane Hub. By sharing data and resources, the development of necessary reference populations will be accelerated. Locally or globally, success in the beef genetics industry has been a model of ‘co-opetition’. Breeders, although competitors, pool resources to build tools that can be used by all to compete with one another. This BLUEGRASS alliance is no different. A global alliance will come together to address this challenge, with or without Australia. Having Australia lead and ignite the alliance with MDC co-funding will create opportunities to direct this global initiative and provide first mover advantages for Australian breeders.

The program is focused on building genomic reference datasets for the main beef breeds in the collaborating countries. The animals to be recorded will be intensively recorded for other production traits, and genotyped, outside this project itself. In each country, trial or research breeding values will be produced and delivered to industry during the life of the project – enabling genetic selection against methane to get underway, and the data will underpin the ability to genomically screen the entire populations of the breeds involved in the respective countries i.e. all seedstock and commercial animals. The data collected will likely assist development of genomic selection against methane in other countries. The accelerated genetic selection and the commercial animal screening will enable real impact to reduce methane from beef cattle. If you have questions about the bluegrass project specifically, you can contact Steve Miller, steve.miller@une.edu.au

===== Number of phenotypes =====
This project will phenotype methane traits in beef cattle populations in the US, Australia, the UK, Ireland, and New Zealand. Around 18.500 phenotypes will be collected over all years and countries. It is estimated that around 7.000 phenotypes will be collected in Australia, around 1.600 in New Zealand, around 800 in the UK, around 2.000 in Ireland and around 7.00 in the USA.
===== Breeds and traits included =====
All countries included in the Bluegrass project have different breeds and different target traits included in their measurements, besides the methane phenotypes.

Australia will focus on Angus and Hereford seedstock with a research population of Angus, Wagyu, Charolais, Shorthorn and Brahman being a target as well. For the seedstock they will focus on seedstock traits plus methane measurements using PAC measures. For the research populations on seedstock traits plus feed intake, carcass as well as methane measurements with PAC.

For New Zealand priority is the progeny test herds. These are mostly Angus, Hereford and their crosses, including a diallel cross design. Some Angus x Simmental. Complete requirements with seedstock herds of Angus and Hereford. Focus is on the following: progeny test, seedstock traits, conception date (via fetal aging) from natural mate at yearling (then re-breeding), carcass grading on steers, feed intake on heifers, rumen microbiome on steers and heifers, seedstock traits from seedstock herds

For the UK focus lies on Angus and Hereford sired animals, both pedigree and crossbred (including from dairy dams) and they focus on liveweights.

For Ireland they include multi-breed/crossbreed. 30% Charolais and Limousin sired from Continental type suckler dams, 30% Holstein-Friesian and 40% beef (mostly Angus) cross dairy. They will focus on feed intake, liveweight and carcass data.

The USA will be measuring Angus focused on seedstock traits from seedstock herds.

==== ''US beef'' ====
This project will accelerate genetic selection for reduced methane emissions from U.S. and Canadian beef cattle, through phenotyping and genotyping the 18 most influential beef breeds in North America.

The primary activities of this project will center on phenotyping and genetic evaluation of the Germplasm Evaluation (GPE) herd, a large, multibreed resource population at the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) in Nebraska, USA. This herd is structured to represent the genetic diversity of the 18 most influential beef breeds in the U.S.. These 18 breeds are: Angus, Red Angus, Hereford, South Devon, Shorthorn, Beefmaster, Brangus, Brahman, Santa Gertrudis, Braunvieh, ChiAngus, Charolais, Gelbvieh, Limousin, Maine-Anjou, Salers, Simmental, Tarentaise.

Recording of methane phenotypes will occur using multiple approaches to not only maximize the number of phenotypes collected, but to also offer a comparison between methodologies within a U.S. beef production system. Based on these findings and in coordination with other GMG project teams, standard operating procedures for methane phenotyping of beef cattle will be developed and integrated into the [https://beefimprovement.org/resource-center/bif-guidelines/ Guidelines for Uniform Beef Improvement Programs] supporting the evolution of these approaches into standard practice and routine evaluation in any beef breeding system. If you have questions about the US beef project specifically, you can contact Matthew Spangler, mspangler2@unl.edu.

===== Main goals =====
* Recording methane phenotypes from at least 5,500 multi-breed genotyped beef cattle and openly sharing to the GMG database and the public domain.
* Development and publication of uniform guidelines for both methane phenotyping in beef cattle systems and the integration of methane phenotypes into beef genetic evaluations, through the BIF Guidelines wiki.
* Dissemination and routine updating of genetic parameter and genomic marker effects critical for the development of genetic selection tools and deployment of methane-reducing breeding programs.

=== '''Sheep''' ===
This project focusses on recording methane phenotypes on animals in various populations, e.g. Merino, Texel, Dohne, Corriedale, maternal and terminal. In each case, those animals will be recorded for a range of other production, health, product quality and welfare traits (the exact suite of traits varies between countries). This ensures that it will be possible to determine the genetic relationships between methane traits and the other traits included in current and future selection indexes and breeding programs – meaning that breeders will be able to make informed decisions on any trade-offs between methane and other traits. In total around 16.600 methane phenotypes will be collected over all years and countries. It is estimated that around 7.500 methane phenotypes will be collected in Australia, 3.000 in Uruguay, 4.000 in New Zealand, 1.200 in the UK and 1.000 in the UK. If you have questions about the sheep project specifically, you can contact Daniel Brown, dbrown2@une.edu.au
==== Main goals ====
* Phenotyping and reference populations. Fast tracked phenotyping and genotyping up to 16,000 records of methane traits across the key countries to facilitate accurate international evaluation of animals (Table 2).
* Genetic evaluation and models. Breeding values based on international genomic evaluation models to share the benefits of the established reference populations.
* Proxies. Development and validation of new phenotyping methods to expedite genetic progress.
* Breeding Programs. Whole farm system models to incorporate methane into breeding objectives in a balanced way and indexes to facilitate selection of breeding candidates.
* Education and adoption. Stakeholder engagement campaign and international development to ensure world-wide impact.

=== '''Africa''' ===
This project focused on three regions of Africa (Eastern, Western and Southern Africa). It will will leverage and accelerate on-going early research on GHG in these regions, strongly build capacity and team up with researchers to record CH4, other economic productive traits and use the records to implement breeding strategies to reduce CH4 emission while simultaneously enhancing productivity, food security and employment opportunities in the dairy and beef cattle farming systems; The source of livelihood for many poorly resourced farmers.

Tapping into the existing breeding program infrastructure for improved productivity for dairy cattle in the three regions of Africa, this project will result in overall program that will accelerate genetic progress through focus on phenotyping, genotyping and the use of information from the microbiome in the genetic selection of animals in the smallholder dairy system. The overall impact will be better mitigation of negative effects of climate change and more productive cows. Through selection programs based on the index developed with the phenotypic and genomic information from this project.

The major activities include the direct CH4 measurements on about 1.655 tropical cattle using [[Greenfeed SOP|GreenFeed]] and the use of [[Laser Methane Detector|LMD]] in smallholder farmers. Genotypic information and phenotypes captured routinely on major important productive traits that influence profitability, income and livelihood of farmers on 1.619 animals. Data sets will be linked to a larger existing data on 9.000 cows with phenotypic and genotypic information from existing projects. If you have questions about the Africa project specifically, you can contact Raphael Mrode, raphael.mrode@sruc.ac.uk

==== Main goals ====

* Methane measurements available on 1.655 tropical cows.
* Tissue samples and genotypes available on 1.619 tropical cows.
* Genetic relationship between dairy cows in Western and Eastern Africa estimated.
* Multi-trait genomic analysis of dairy data and methane in Eastern Africa.
* Incorporate existing data on over 9.000 cows from existing research projects to enhance genomic prediction.
* Computation and the roll out of final selection index or sub-indexes developed for improved efficiency - reduced CH4 emission, lower maintenance requirement and increased milk production.

=== '''Latin America''' ===
The aim of this project is to accelerate the reduction of enteric methane emissions in beef cattle in Latin America through genetic selection in key breeds relevant to Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, and Mexico. The focus will be on phenotyping methane emissions and genotyping animals linked to existing genetic improvement programs. Reference populations for genomic selection will be the basis to improve the estimation of genetic merit and select for lower emission. The link with ongoing genetic improvement programs provides data on other economically relevant production traits, thus making it possible to estimate genetic correlations and optimize methane emission reductions with a minimum impact on livestock productivity. This approach minimizes negative impacts on food production while preserving economic, social, and environmental sustainability of beef cattle farming. This collaborative project between national agricultural research institutes (NARI) is supported by breeders’ associations and other key stakeholders. Public-private partnerships and collaborative efforts will scale genetic evaluation for methane emissions as well as the use of lower methane emission genetics on commercial farms. Phenotypic and genomic data from approximately 7.000 animals will be made globally available. In synergy with other projects, it will be possible to increase the size of reference populations leading to an even greater impact on methane emissions mitigation. If you have questions about the Latin America project specifically, you can contact Elly Navajas, enavajas@inia.org.uy

For developing methane emission phenotyping platforms and reference populations, it is essential to upgrade methane emission recording equipment as well as standardize and coordinate the measurement of animals. Standardized protocols will be developed in collaboration with ICAR, and the criteria for selecting animals to be measured and genotyped will be established by the research team, including technicians from breeder associations. A critical component of the project involves genetic analyses, such as estimating genetic parameters for methane emission-related traits, validating breeding values in additional populations, and evaluating the impact of selecting for reduced methane emissions. Scientific collaboration will be fostered with other beef cattle projects, focusing on areas such as expertise exchange. Communication strategies will be implemented to engage stakeholders, including breeders, artificial insemination centers, policymakers, and other private stakeholders. Dialogue with teams managing greenhouse gas (GHG) inventories and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) will also be enhanced. These activities require active collaboration among countries and stakeholders in Latin America to achieve successful outcomes.

==== Main goals ====

* A Latin American collaborative network for accelerating genetic improvement for methane emissions reduction is established by NARIs, universities, breeder societies, and private stakeholders engaged in genetic evaluation programs across South America and Mexico.
* Methane emission phenotyping platforms are implemented, enabling data collection across key beef cattle breeds, targeting 7.000 methane emission phenotypes and genotypes of animals linked to genetic evaluations.
* Genomic-enhanced estimated breeding values for methane emissions will be available to breeders: based on pure-breed and multi-breed reference populations enhanced through collaboration and data sharing across beef cattle projects within the GMG initiative.
* The economic and environmental impact of breeding strategies to reduce methane emissions is assessed, to identify the most promising breeding strategies to accelerate methane emission reduction. The development of breeding objectives combining methane emission reduction with production goals will support policy and incentives for breeders and farmers to overcome adoption barriers and integrate the results into national GHG inventories.

=== '''Microbiome''' ===
The micro-HUB project will establish a reference population with metagenome and genotype data, and create a genomic evaluation system that can be used to select the parents of the next generation with microbiome profiles that produce less enteric methane while maintaining genetic progress in profit and health. The genomic evaluation system will be widely open, will target most relevant breeds and production systems. Furthermore, a large global microbiome network will be established to collect existing data and knowledge and ensure knowledge transfer.

This project will start with metagenome and genomic data on 5.430 individuals from the core project partners, we will explore the opportunity to extend and expand our reference population to other countries with suitable data. By combining national data sets with genotypes, microbiome and methane information, we aim to create the largest rumen microbiome reference population globally. We aim to enlarge the reference population by more than 20.000 microbiome sequenced dairy and beef cattle as well as sheep from the Global Methane Genetics (GMG) program. From this, we will facilitate the delivery of genomic breeding values that can be used in global breeding programs to select for a microbiome composition with lower emissions and reduce the abundance of methanogenic pathways in the rumen microbiome of future generations of cattle and sheep. The project partners cover beef, dairy and sheep populations and creates an opportunity to identify a core microbiome (or set of cores) that can be used as a reference for nation-based breeding programs. The project will closely connect to the other projects within the Global Methane Program, to facilitate microbiome sampling, sequencing and genomic analysis. If you have questions about the microbiome project specifically, you can contact Oscar Gonzalez-Recio, oscar.gonzalezrecio@ed.ac.uk

==== Activities ====
To enlarge the national database partners will obtain additional samples from animals with methane and genotype data from different breeds and production systems within the GMG phenotyping program (dairy and beef cattle). The inclusion of samples from external partners will be encouraged. Partners (also external) will be provided with instruction to collect data and sample rumen microbiome. The micro-Hub will provide stewardship for GMG partners regarding sampling, storage and shipping, as well as bioinformatic analysis. Rumen metagenome sequencing will be centralized in as fewer labs as possible (ideally only one).

Reference populations from partners will be combined, covering a broad range of breeds and productions systems and different geographical regions. Format of the databases will be unified. The combined dataset will be used for the microbiome genomic evaluations. The reference database will be updated with additional data coming from external partners.

We will develop the capabilities to estimate the genomic breeding value for microbiome composition for any genotyped animal in similar productive conditions as those represented in our reference population. The goal is to propose recommendations based on own experience to include estimated genomic breeding values for rumen microbiome profile in breeding programs.

The project will contribute to the activities organized within Global Methane Genetics and the ICAR Feed&Gas working group in building a microbiome network to exchange knowledge, harmonize guidelines and develop protocols. All data generated within the project will be made available through the Global Methane Genetics database. The project will collaborate with the database development to develop microbiome sharing requirements and specifications.

==== Main goals ====

* Joint reference metagenome compiled.
* Microbiome genomic evaluations.
* Release of SNP coefficients for international genomic evaluations for microbiome compositions.
* Network building and establishment of platform for rumen metagenome data.

=== '''Working Group meetings''' ===

The six working groups as described above meet two times a year to discuss the progress of their projects and to share knowledge. There are also general webinars organized for the project participants throughout the years.

==== Dairy Cattle ====
On the 15th of May 2025 the Working Group Dairy cattle met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:250515 GMG meeting Dairy Working Group.pdf|here.]]

On the 27th of October 2025 the Working Group Cattle had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251027 GMG Working group Dairy meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Sheep ====
On the 20th of May 2025 the Working Sheep met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:20250520 Meeting GMG Working group sheep.pdf|here.]]

On the 11th of November 2025 the Working Group Sheep had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251111 Sheep Working Group GMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

==== Microbiome ====
On the 23th of May 2025 the Working Group Microbiome met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:202505 Global Meeting Genetics Microbiome working group meeting.pdf|here.]]

On the 27th of November 2025 the Working Group Microbiome had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251127 GMG Microbiome WG presentation.pdf|here.]]

On the 2nd of December 2025 the Working group microbiome organized a Q&A session about microbiome sampling. You can find the slides [[:File:20251202 GMG meeting MicroHub Q&A.pdf|here.]]

==== Latin America ====
On the 5th of June 2025 the Working Group Latin America met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:202506 Presentation GMG Working Group Latin America meeting.pdf|here.]]

On the 14th of November 2025 the Working Group Latin America had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251114 Latin America GMG Work group meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Africa ====
On the 23th of May 2025 the Working Group Africa met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:20250523 GMG Working group Africa meeting.pdf|here.]]

On the 7th of November 2025 the Working Group Africa had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251107 Africa Workgroup GMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

==== Beef ====
On the 17th of June 2025 the Working Group Beef met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:202506 GMG Working group Beef meeting.pdf|here.]]

On the 11th of November 2025 the Working Group Beef had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251106 GMG Working group Beef meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Asia ====
On the 1th of July 2025 the Working Group Asia met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:20250701 AsiaGMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

On the 25th of November the Working Group Asia organized a webinar for parties interested in contributing to the Asia group. You can find slides on data to impact [[:File:GMG Asia From data to impact.pdf|here]], an introduction into the GMG [[:File:Asia 20251105.pdf|here]], slides on methane recording techniques [[:File:2511 GMG Asia MethaneMethods.pdf|here]] and a presentation about [[Laser Methane Detector|LMD]] and their experiences from ILRI [[:File:ILRI LMD Exp 2025.pdf|here]].

==== Webinars ====
On the 22th of May 2025 there was a webinar for all GMG project participants on effective records in the database, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:250515 GMG meeting Dairy Working Group.pdf|here.]]

== DAFNE ==
Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences at the University of Tuscia. Their main purpose is to collect primary emissions data from sniffers and GF to have emissions factors related to the species, breed, physiological state and diet management. They are engaged with ANAFIBJ and sharing data related to Holstein cattle with them for genetic evaluations. Currently they are running trials with sheep and buffalo.

=== Sheep ===
For this trial they are comparing 2 grazing methods using 2 groups of Sopravissana sheep, reared at the facility.

# Rotational, 18 sheep. Turns every 4 days on strip paddocks. 18 paddocks in total; 6 heads on 3 strip paddocks per turn of grazing. After 24 days the sheep are back to the first three strips.
# Continuous, 18 sheep. Continuous grazing on same paddock. 3 paddocks in total; 6 heads per paddock.

Subgroups for both group A and B (6 heads) are randomly arranged every day. The 18 strip paddocks are the same total size as the three continuous paddocks. They have the same number of heads grazing and the same live weight load.

Both groups are balanced for BW, receive the same hay in quantity and quality with ad libitum access and spend the same time at pasture. Daily sampling of the hay and residual per group is done, weekly sub samples of hay and residual are analyzed. In parallel fresh grass is sampled and analyzed to represent the 2 grazing methods.

The GreenFeed is located in the barn, at 9AM this barn is closed for group A and opens for group B and this switches every day. The GreenFeed is the only place they can get concentrates. Nutritional information for this concentrate can be found [[:File:Nutritional table sheep DAFHNE.docx|here]]. Amount of food and cup drops can be found here.

Trial started end of March 2025 and will last 1.5 months. They are using the GF adapted for small ruminants.

=== Buffalo ===
This is a continuous trial which will last 4 months per supplement tested. First they monitor the buffalo for 4 weeks without supplement as a control diet and then there will be an 8 week experimental period with the supplement diet. During the entire period the buffalo are confined to the barn.

The buffalo are separated in two groups, in adjacent pens. One group has access to a milking robot, with the MooLogger from [[Sniffer SOP|Tecnosens.]] The other pen has a conventional milking system and the GreenFeed is placed facing this pen.

All buffaloes are fed the same concentrates. Nutritional information for this concentrate can be found [[:File:Nutritional table Buffalo DAFHNE.docx|here]]. Amount of food and cup drops can be found here. The buffalo’s in the GF group get the concentrates from the GF and about 1 kg of concentrates during milking operations. The buffalo’s in the sniffer group only get concentrates from the milking robot, which is about 2 kg/head/day.

To account for the emissions recorded individually at different times, they compare the emissions data aggregated on a daily basis. They are using the GF adapted for large ruminants with horns

== MethaBreed ==
[[File:P-2025-1-15-2 FBF Logo MethaBreed Logo 01 4C-01 klein.png|thumb|170x170px]]
The MethaBreed project aims to improve the sustainability of dairy production by developing innovative breeding strategies for dairy cows that simultaneously reduce methane emissions, enhance feed efficiency, and support animal health. A large-scale longitudinal study is being conducted in commercial dairy herds. Using advanced technologies, individual cow traits are recorded across entire lactations and multiple lactation cycles. Data collection includes continuous monitoring of methane emissions using sniffers, feed intake (using CFIT: Cattle Feed Intake System), body weight (using CFIT and scales), and key health parameters. A particular focus lies on the role of the rumen microbiome in methane production. A central goal of MethaBreed is the development of a new breeding value for methane emissions, enabling the selection of animals with lower environmental impact. These data will be integrated with pedigree and genomic information to allow precise breeding decisions. At the same time, the existing breeding value for feed efficiency will be further refined. The outcomes of the project are expected to make a significant contribution towards more climate-friendly dairy production. In the long term, standardized breeding values will be provided, enabling breeding organizations and farmers to actively select for healthier, more efficient, and more sustainable dairy cows. For more information you can visit the following websites from the partners: [https://www.uni-giessen.de/de/fbz/fb09/institute/ith/ag-koenig/forschung/laufend/methabreed University Giessen], [https://www.fbf-forschung.de/aktuelles/methabreed-neues-forschungsprojekt-zur-reduzierung.html FBF], [https://livestock-functional-microbiology.uni-hohenheim.de/en/research-projects#jfmulticontent_c401477-2 University of Hohenheim.] Further partners are [https://www.vit.de/ vit] and [https://www.uni-kiel.de/de/aef/fakultaet/institute/tierzucht-tierhaltung University Kiel]. The project is funded by the German Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Regional Identity on the basis of a resolution of the German Bundestag. The project management is carried out by the Federal Office for Agriculture and Food (BLE) within the framework of the Federal Programme for Livestock Farming. Funding reference numbers: 28KTF23C01–05.

== breed4green ==
[[File:Logo B4G RZ RGB 1 Transparent.png|right|frameless|228x228px]]
Direct and indirect traits for feed efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions for breeding and herd management in cattle:

The [https://www.rinderzucht.at/projekt/breed4green.html breed4green] project focuses on researching strategies to reduce methane emissions and enhance feed efficiency within the Austrian cattle industry. Measurements of methane and CO2 emissions are conducted on both experimental and commercial farms using the GreenFeed system. The aim of the project is to collect methane and CO2 measurements of approximately 1,000 Fleckvieh and 200 Brown Swiss cows. In addition, various phenotypes such as health, body weight, BCS, metabolism, energy intake and milk mid infrared (MIR) spectra are recorded. Data on feed intake from experimental farms are also available for validation. The genetic potential of direct traits like methane, CO2 and feed efficiency, along with their correlations to health and other traits, will be analyzed. The project also includes the development and validation of MIR equations for emitted methane and energy balance. The focus will be on investigating the use of these indirect traits to reduce methane emissions and improve feed efficiency in breeding programs to pave the way for genomic selection. The results will also be used to optimize herd management. Furthermore, the environmental impact of relevant dairy and beef production systems in Austria will be investigated.

== Presentation materials ==

=== Seminar by Julius van der Werf: Breeding for a changing climate 13-05-2025 ===
On the 13th of May Julius van de Werf gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on selection indexes for selecting low methane livestock, focused on sheep. You can find the slides [[:File:20250513 Seminar J.v.d.Werf.pdf|here]]. You can find the recording of the presentation below.

<youtube>PxKmxKVvVEA?si=C6x0keKAvgU009Da</youtube>

=== Seminar by Maria Frizzarin: Introduction to milk mid-infrared spectroscopy 10-07-2025 ===
On the 10th of July Maria Frizzarin gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on milk mid-infrared spectroscopy, equations development, and applications. You can find the slides [[:File:10072025 Seminar Maria MIR.pdf|here.]]

=== Seminar by Sarah-Joe Burn: Breed4Green 25-09-2025 ===
On the 25th of September Sarah-Joe Burn gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on measuring methane emissions in commercial farms and establishing a comprehensive dataset for genetic studies. A similar presentations was given at EAAP 2025, you can find the slides to that presentation [[:File:Eaap2025-breed4green-linke.pdf|here]] and the abstract [[:File:2025 Innsbruck EAAP Book Abstracts.pdf|here]], page 250.

=== Joint ICAR Feed&Gas and ASGGN workshop ===
On the 5th of October the joint workshop between the [https://www.icar.org/group/working-group-feed-and-gas/ ICAR Feed&Gas working group] and the [https://www.asggn.org/ ASGGN] took place before the GGAA conference in Nairobi. The presentations can be found below.

[[:File:2025 ASGGN - GGAA - A Taste of the Future Buccal Swabbing for Rumen Microbial ProfilingTB.pdf|A Taste of the Future: Buccal Swabbing for Rumen Microbial Profiling]]. Presented by Ben Perry ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:2638 Booker ILRI GGAA ASGGN Oct 2025.pdf|Rate of Genetic Gain for Methane Emissions in a Maternal Production Flock]]. Presented by Fem Booker ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:Boris ICAR2025 v01.pdf|Association between rumen and faecal microbiome and enteric methane emissions in dairy cattle]]. Presented by Boris Sepulveda ([https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/ AV])

[[:File:CaeliRichardson GGAA Workshop 2025.pdf|Global Framework to Monitor, Measure, and Account for Methane Reductions from Genetic Selection]]. Presented by Caeli Richardson ([https://abacusbio.com/ Abacusbio])

[[:File:GGAA Workshop ICAR and ASGGN Ida Storm.pdf|Danish Perspectives on implementation of GHG regulation]]. Presented by Ida Storm ([https://agricultureandfood.dk/ DAFG])

[[:File:GGAA Workshop ICAR and ASGGN Rasmus Stephansen.pdf|Experience with CH4 sniffers, what have we learned so far?]] Presented by Rasmus Stephansen ([https://international.au.dk/ AU])

[[:File:GGAA workshop MIR methane presentation.pdf|Overview of the methane equations developed from mid-infrared spectroscopy and their applications.]] Presented by Maria Frizzarin ([https://www.agroscope.admin.ch/agroscope/en/home.html Agroscope])

[[:File:HanneHonerlagen ICARpresentation.pdf|Adding microbial data to enhance breeding for lower methane emissions]]. Presented by Hanne Honerlagen ([https://www.wur.nl/en/research-results/chair-groups/animal-sciences/animal-breeding-and-genomics-group.htm WUR-ABG])

[[:File:McNaughton ASGGN Workshop final.pdf|GreenFeed for phenotyping – our experiences]]. Presented by Lorna McNaughton ([https://www.lic.co.nz/ LIC])

[[:File:MIE ILRI GGAA ASGGN Oct 2025.pdf|Methane Index Explorer: Optimising a Breeding Value Format for Simultaneous Inclusion of Enteric Methane Emissions in Breeding Schemes and National Inventories]]. Presented by Pavithra Ariyarathne ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:RiccardoGGAA Presentation RB.pdf|ZELP sense]]. Presented by Riccardo Bica ([https://www.zelp.co/ ZELP])

[[:File:ICAR Working group Nairobi 5 Oct2025.pdf|Selection for lower methane livestock, selection index considerations]]. Presented by Julius van der Werf (UNE)

Measuring enteric methane in beef and dairy cattle using PAC. Presented by Timothy Bilton ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])<youtube>https://youtu.be/NjPuotrmkMQ</youtube>

Estimating methane emissions with the GreenFeed System. Presented by Paul Smith ([https://teagasc.ie/ Teagasc]) <youtube>https://youtu.be/TnHefWoP29I</youtube>

File:Logo B4G RZ RGB 1 Transparent.png

2026-01-20T09:02:32Z

Cvangemert:

breed4green logo

Section 20: Activities

2026-01-07T09:05:29Z

Cvangemert: added further partners and funding body for MethaBreed

<center>
<big>
NOTE: This version of Section 20 has been approved by the working group's Chair. Please be aware that further revisions may occur before final review and approval by the Board and ICAR members per the [[Approval of Page Process]].

</big>
</center>
== Global Methane Genetics ==
[[File:GMG label.png|right|frameless|300x300px]]
The Global Methane Genetics (GMG) initiative is a global program to accelerate genetic progress in methane emission in ruminants in the Global North and South. This WUR-ABG coordinated initiative is funded by the [https://www.globalmethanehub.org/ Global Methane Hub] and the [https://www.bezosearthfund.org/ Bezos Earth Fund,] both based on philanthropic funds to support methane mitigation and prevent global warming. If you have questions about the [https://www.wur.nl/en/project/global-methane-genetics-initiative.htm GMG initiative] you can send an email to gmg@wur.nl, contact Roel Veerkamp: roel.veerkamp@wur.nl or Birgit Gredler-Grandl: birgit.gredler-grandl@wur.nl.

The initiative holds the following projects:

=== '''Dairy Cattle''' ===
We can look to nature to reduce CH4 emissions and use genetic diversity to provide solutions. Genetic improvement, based on identifying animals with genetic predisposition for lower CH4 output and using them to breed for the next generations, is a reliable, cost-effective, and permanent method for transforming livestock's impact on the environment. Breeding programs in dairy cattle are run within breeds and across countries. Therefore, the program will accelerate genetic progress by focusing on four major dairy breeds and organizations and countries involved in those breeds. Additionally, the program will acquire considerable leverage through investments in these countries. If you have questions about the dairy cattle section you can contact Birgit Gredler-Grandl: birgit.gredler-grandl@wur.nl.

==== ''Holstein breed'' ====
The largest data collection has been for the Holstein breed, but there is a lack of standardization and protocols in terms of equipment and its utilization (farm level, data processing, data sharing agreements, genetic evaluations, and data collections). Governments and breeding organizations in Denmark and the Netherlands will collaborate and collect methane and genotypes on more than 20,000 Holstein cows for the GMG database. Also, Poland and Italy team up to collect data for the GMG database, and their aim is also to collect more than 20,000 Holstein animals and develop genetic evaluations across a wide range of systems.

===== Denmark-The Netherlands =====
This collaboration between Aarhus University and Wageningen Livestock Research has five main goals. The contact person for questions about this project is Trine Villumsen: tmv@qgg.au.dk.

* Setting up Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for measuring methane using sniffers
* Setting up international protocols to measure methane on commercial farms
* Develop software tools to automate the processing of data into a phenotype
* Combine historical data in both countries for genetic evaluations
* Measure enteric methane in 20.000 new cows.

===== Poland-Italy =====
This collaboration has the following main goals. The contact person for questions about this project is Raffaella Finocchiaro raffaellafinocchiaro@anafibj.it.

* Measure enteric methane in 20.000 new cows.

==== ''Jersey breed'' ====
Currently, due to the limited data available, the Jersey dairy breed does not have breeding values for methane (CH4) mitigation. The goal of the program is to collect methane genotypes in Canada and Denmark and share this information with the GMG database. The aim is to develop breeding values that will be distributed through the World Jersey Cattle Bureau organization and national Jersey organizations in Australia, Canada, Switzerland, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and New Zealand. If you have questions about the Jersey breed section you can contact Rasmus Bak Stephansen rasmus.stephansen@qgg.au.dk

==== ''Brown Swiss breed'' ====
The Brown Swiss (BS) breed faces significant challenges due to its small population size, an divers environments the animals are kept. A collaboration between Germany, Switzerland, and Austria to phenotype enough animals is a prerequisite for utilizing the genetic potential of reducing methane emission of the BS breed. In addition to a population of 250 cows recorded with Greenfeed, and 1250 with the sniffer, progress will be accelerated by recording an additional 3,360 cows with sniffers. If you have questions about the Brown Swiss breed section you can contact Elena Frenken: fe@fbf-forschung.de.

==== ''Red breeds'' ====
The red breeds are important for crossbreeding in many countries around the world. The project aims to share and collect CH4 data from Red Dairy Cattle (RDC) breeds (in the Nordic countries, Canada, and the United Kingdom (UK)) and share it with the Global Methane Genetics (GMG) Hub. Together, they will set up a shared genetic evaluation for bulls used for crossbreeding in many more countries. If you have questions about the Red breed section you can contact Elisenda Rius-Vilarrasa: Elisenda.Rius-Vilarrasa@vxa.se.

=== '''Beef Cattle''' ===

==== ''Bluegrass (global beef)'' ====
All industries world-wide have been challenged with reducing emissions and beef is no exception. Genetic selection and specifically genomic selection have been identified as key tools to help meet this challenge. Methane emissions are not a local problem, but a global one and several major beef producing countries who exchange genetic material have, are, and will be collecting methane phenotypes for the purpose of genomic prediction. Individually (including those in Australia), these datasets will be limited in their genomic prediction accuracy. The BLUEGRASS alliance will bring together the key players globally, who collectively have solicited key seed funding from the Global Methane Hub. By sharing data and resources, the development of necessary reference populations will be accelerated. Locally or globally, success in the beef genetics industry has been a model of ‘co-opetition’. Breeders, although competitors, pool resources to build tools that can be used by all to compete with one another. This BLUEGRASS alliance is no different. A global alliance will come together to address this challenge, with or without Australia. Having Australia lead and ignite the alliance with MDC co-funding will create opportunities to direct this global initiative and provide first mover advantages for Australian breeders.

The program is focused on building genomic reference datasets for the main beef breeds in the collaborating countries. The animals to be recorded will be intensively recorded for other production traits, and genotyped, outside this project itself. In each country, trial or research breeding values will be produced and delivered to industry during the life of the project – enabling genetic selection against methane to get underway, and the data will underpin the ability to genomically screen the entire populations of the breeds involved in the respective countries i.e. all seedstock and commercial animals. The data collected will likely assist development of genomic selection against methane in other countries. The accelerated genetic selection and the commercial animal screening will enable real impact to reduce methane from beef cattle. If you have questions about the bluegrass project specifically, you can contact Steve Miller, steve.miller@une.edu.au

===== Number of phenotypes =====
This project will phenotype methane traits in beef cattle populations in the US, Australia, the UK, Ireland, and New Zealand. Around 18.500 phenotypes will be collected over all years and countries. It is estimated that around 7.000 phenotypes will be collected in Australia, around 1.600 in New Zealand, around 800 in the UK, around 2.000 in Ireland and around 7.00 in the USA.
===== Breeds and traits included =====
All countries included in the Bluegrass project have different breeds and different target traits included in their measurements, besides the methane phenotypes.

Australia will focus on Angus and Hereford seedstock with a research population of Angus, Wagyu, Charolais, Shorthorn and Brahman being a target as well. For the seedstock they will focus on seedstock traits plus methane measurements using PAC measures. For the research populations on seedstock traits plus feed intake, carcass as well as methane measurements with PAC.

For New Zealand priority is the progeny test herds. These are mostly Angus, Hereford and their crosses, including a diallel cross design. Some Angus x Simmental. Complete requirements with seedstock herds of Angus and Hereford. Focus is on the following: progeny test, seedstock traits, conception date (via fetal aging) from natural mate at yearling (then re-breeding), carcass grading on steers, feed intake on heifers, rumen microbiome on steers and heifers, seedstock traits from seedstock herds

For the UK focus lies on Angus and Hereford sired animals, both pedigree and crossbred (including from dairy dams) and they focus on liveweights.

For Ireland they include multi-breed/crossbreed. 30% Charolais and Limousin sired from Continental type suckler dams, 30% Holstein-Friesian and 40% beef (mostly Angus) cross dairy. They will focus on feed intake, liveweight and carcass data.

The USA will be measuring Angus focused on seedstock traits from seedstock herds.

==== ''US beef'' ====
This project will accelerate genetic selection for reduced methane emissions from U.S. and Canadian beef cattle, through phenotyping and genotyping the 18 most influential beef breeds in North America.

The primary activities of this project will center on phenotyping and genetic evaluation of the Germplasm Evaluation (GPE) herd, a large, multibreed resource population at the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) in Nebraska, USA. This herd is structured to represent the genetic diversity of the 18 most influential beef breeds in the U.S.. These 18 breeds are: Angus, Red Angus, Hereford, South Devon, Shorthorn, Beefmaster, Brangus, Brahman, Santa Gertrudis, Braunvieh, ChiAngus, Charolais, Gelbvieh, Limousin, Maine-Anjou, Salers, Simmental, Tarentaise.

Recording of methane phenotypes will occur using multiple approaches to not only maximize the number of phenotypes collected, but to also offer a comparison between methodologies within a U.S. beef production system. Based on these findings and in coordination with other GMG project teams, standard operating procedures for methane phenotyping of beef cattle will be developed and integrated into the [https://beefimprovement.org/resource-center/bif-guidelines/ Guidelines for Uniform Beef Improvement Programs] supporting the evolution of these approaches into standard practice and routine evaluation in any beef breeding system. If you have questions about the US beef project specifically, you can contact Matthew Spangler, mspangler2@unl.edu.

===== Main goals =====
* Recording methane phenotypes from at least 5,500 multi-breed genotyped beef cattle and openly sharing to the GMG database and the public domain.
* Development and publication of uniform guidelines for both methane phenotyping in beef cattle systems and the integration of methane phenotypes into beef genetic evaluations, through the BIF Guidelines wiki.
* Dissemination and routine updating of genetic parameter and genomic marker effects critical for the development of genetic selection tools and deployment of methane-reducing breeding programs.

=== '''Sheep''' ===
This project focusses on recording methane phenotypes on animals in various populations, e.g. Merino, Texel, Dohne, Corriedale, maternal and terminal. In each case, those animals will be recorded for a range of other production, health, product quality and welfare traits (the exact suite of traits varies between countries). This ensures that it will be possible to determine the genetic relationships between methane traits and the other traits included in current and future selection indexes and breeding programs – meaning that breeders will be able to make informed decisions on any trade-offs between methane and other traits. In total around 16.600 methane phenotypes will be collected over all years and countries. It is estimated that around 7.500 methane phenotypes will be collected in Australia, 3.000 in Uruguay, 4.000 in New Zealand, 1.200 in the UK and 1.000 in the UK. If you have questions about the sheep project specifically, you can contact Daniel Brown, dbrown2@une.edu.au
==== Main goals ====
* Phenotyping and reference populations. Fast tracked phenotyping and genotyping up to 16,000 records of methane traits across the key countries to facilitate accurate international evaluation of animals (Table 2).
* Genetic evaluation and models. Breeding values based on international genomic evaluation models to share the benefits of the established reference populations.
* Proxies. Development and validation of new phenotyping methods to expedite genetic progress.
* Breeding Programs. Whole farm system models to incorporate methane into breeding objectives in a balanced way and indexes to facilitate selection of breeding candidates.
* Education and adoption. Stakeholder engagement campaign and international development to ensure world-wide impact.

=== '''Africa''' ===
This project focused on three regions of Africa (Eastern, Western and Southern Africa). It will will leverage and accelerate on-going early research on GHG in these regions, strongly build capacity and team up with researchers to record CH4, other economic productive traits and use the records to implement breeding strategies to reduce CH4 emission while simultaneously enhancing productivity, food security and employment opportunities in the dairy and beef cattle farming systems; The source of livelihood for many poorly resourced farmers.

Tapping into the existing breeding program infrastructure for improved productivity for dairy cattle in the three regions of Africa, this project will result in overall program that will accelerate genetic progress through focus on phenotyping, genotyping and the use of information from the microbiome in the genetic selection of animals in the smallholder dairy system. The overall impact will be better mitigation of negative effects of climate change and more productive cows. Through selection programs based on the index developed with the phenotypic and genomic information from this project.

The major activities include the direct CH4 measurements on about 1.655 tropical cattle using [[Greenfeed SOP|GreenFeed]] and the use of [[Laser Methane Detector|LMD]] in smallholder farmers. Genotypic information and phenotypes captured routinely on major important productive traits that influence profitability, income and livelihood of farmers on 1.619 animals. Data sets will be linked to a larger existing data on 9.000 cows with phenotypic and genotypic information from existing projects. If you have questions about the Africa project specifically, you can contact Raphael Mrode, raphael.mrode@sruc.ac.uk

==== Main goals ====

* Methane measurements available on 1.655 tropical cows.
* Tissue samples and genotypes available on 1.619 tropical cows.
* Genetic relationship between dairy cows in Western and Eastern Africa estimated.
* Multi-trait genomic analysis of dairy data and methane in Eastern Africa.
* Incorporate existing data on over 9.000 cows from existing research projects to enhance genomic prediction.
* Computation and the roll out of final selection index or sub-indexes developed for improved efficiency - reduced CH4 emission, lower maintenance requirement and increased milk production.

=== '''Latin America''' ===
The aim of this project is to accelerate the reduction of enteric methane emissions in beef cattle in Latin America through genetic selection in key breeds relevant to Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, and Mexico. The focus will be on phenotyping methane emissions and genotyping animals linked to existing genetic improvement programs. Reference populations for genomic selection will be the basis to improve the estimation of genetic merit and select for lower emission. The link with ongoing genetic improvement programs provides data on other economically relevant production traits, thus making it possible to estimate genetic correlations and optimize methane emission reductions with a minimum impact on livestock productivity. This approach minimizes negative impacts on food production while preserving economic, social, and environmental sustainability of beef cattle farming. This collaborative project between national agricultural research institutes (NARI) is supported by breeders’ associations and other key stakeholders. Public-private partnerships and collaborative efforts will scale genetic evaluation for methane emissions as well as the use of lower methane emission genetics on commercial farms. Phenotypic and genomic data from approximately 7.000 animals will be made globally available. In synergy with other projects, it will be possible to increase the size of reference populations leading to an even greater impact on methane emissions mitigation. If you have questions about the Latin America project specifically, you can contact Elly Navajas, enavajas@inia.org.uy

For developing methane emission phenotyping platforms and reference populations, it is essential to upgrade methane emission recording equipment as well as standardize and coordinate the measurement of animals. Standardized protocols will be developed in collaboration with ICAR, and the criteria for selecting animals to be measured and genotyped will be established by the research team, including technicians from breeder associations. A critical component of the project involves genetic analyses, such as estimating genetic parameters for methane emission-related traits, validating breeding values in additional populations, and evaluating the impact of selecting for reduced methane emissions. Scientific collaboration will be fostered with other beef cattle projects, focusing on areas such as expertise exchange. Communication strategies will be implemented to engage stakeholders, including breeders, artificial insemination centers, policymakers, and other private stakeholders. Dialogue with teams managing greenhouse gas (GHG) inventories and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) will also be enhanced. These activities require active collaboration among countries and stakeholders in Latin America to achieve successful outcomes.

==== Main goals ====

* A Latin American collaborative network for accelerating genetic improvement for methane emissions reduction is established by NARIs, universities, breeder societies, and private stakeholders engaged in genetic evaluation programs across South America and Mexico.
* Methane emission phenotyping platforms are implemented, enabling data collection across key beef cattle breeds, targeting 7.000 methane emission phenotypes and genotypes of animals linked to genetic evaluations.
* Genomic-enhanced estimated breeding values for methane emissions will be available to breeders: based on pure-breed and multi-breed reference populations enhanced through collaboration and data sharing across beef cattle projects within the GMG initiative.
* The economic and environmental impact of breeding strategies to reduce methane emissions is assessed, to identify the most promising breeding strategies to accelerate methane emission reduction. The development of breeding objectives combining methane emission reduction with production goals will support policy and incentives for breeders and farmers to overcome adoption barriers and integrate the results into national GHG inventories.

=== '''Microbiome''' ===
The micro-HUB project will establish a reference population with metagenome and genotype data, and create a genomic evaluation system that can be used to select the parents of the next generation with microbiome profiles that produce less enteric methane while maintaining genetic progress in profit and health. The genomic evaluation system will be widely open, will target most relevant breeds and production systems. Furthermore, a large global microbiome network will be established to collect existing data and knowledge and ensure knowledge transfer.

This project will start with metagenome and genomic data on 5.430 individuals from the core project partners, we will explore the opportunity to extend and expand our reference population to other countries with suitable data. By combining national data sets with genotypes, microbiome and methane information, we aim to create the largest rumen microbiome reference population globally. We aim to enlarge the reference population by more than 20.000 microbiome sequenced dairy and beef cattle as well as sheep from the Global Methane Genetics (GMG) program. From this, we will facilitate the delivery of genomic breeding values that can be used in global breeding programs to select for a microbiome composition with lower emissions and reduce the abundance of methanogenic pathways in the rumen microbiome of future generations of cattle and sheep. The project partners cover beef, dairy and sheep populations and creates an opportunity to identify a core microbiome (or set of cores) that can be used as a reference for nation-based breeding programs. The project will closely connect to the other projects within the Global Methane Program, to facilitate microbiome sampling, sequencing and genomic analysis. If you have questions about the microbiome project specifically, you can contact Oscar Gonzalez-Recio, oscar.gonzalezrecio@ed.ac.uk

==== Activities ====
To enlarge the national database partners will obtain additional samples from animals with methane and genotype data from different breeds and production systems within the GMG phenotyping program (dairy and beef cattle). The inclusion of samples from external partners will be encouraged. Partners (also external) will be provided with instruction to collect data and sample rumen microbiome. The micro-Hub will provide stewardship for GMG partners regarding sampling, storage and shipping, as well as bioinformatic analysis. Rumen metagenome sequencing will be centralized in as fewer labs as possible (ideally only one).

Reference populations from partners will be combined, covering a broad range of breeds and productions systems and different geographical regions. Format of the databases will be unified. The combined dataset will be used for the microbiome genomic evaluations. The reference database will be updated with additional data coming from external partners.

We will develop the capabilities to estimate the genomic breeding value for microbiome composition for any genotyped animal in similar productive conditions as those represented in our reference population. The goal is to propose recommendations based on own experience to include estimated genomic breeding values for rumen microbiome profile in breeding programs.

The project will contribute to the activities organized within Global Methane Genetics and the ICAR Feed&Gas working group in building a microbiome network to exchange knowledge, harmonize guidelines and develop protocols. All data generated within the project will be made available through the Global Methane Genetics database. The project will collaborate with the database development to develop microbiome sharing requirements and specifications.

==== Main goals ====

* Joint reference metagenome compiled.
* Microbiome genomic evaluations.
* Release of SNP coefficients for international genomic evaluations for microbiome compositions.
* Network building and establishment of platform for rumen metagenome data.

=== '''Working Group meetings''' ===

The six working groups as described above meet two times a year to discuss the progress of their projects and to share knowledge. There are also general webinars organized for the project participants throughout the years.

==== Dairy Cattle ====
On the 15th of May 2025 the Working Group Dairy cattle met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:250515 GMG meeting Dairy Working Group.pdf|here.]]

On the 27th of October 2025 the Working Group Cattle had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251027 GMG Working group Dairy meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Sheep ====
On the 20th of May 2025 the Working Sheep met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:20250520 Meeting GMG Working group sheep.pdf|here.]]

On the 11th of November 2025 the Working Group Sheep had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251111 Sheep Working Group GMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

==== Microbiome ====
On the 23th of May 2025 the Working Group Microbiome met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:202505 Global Meeting Genetics Microbiome working group meeting.pdf|here.]]

On the 27th of November 2025 the Working Group Microbiome had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251127 GMG Microbiome WG presentation.pdf|here.]]

On the 2nd of December 2025 the Working group microbiome organized a Q&A session about microbiome sampling. You can find the slides [[:File:20251202 GMG meeting MicroHub Q&A.pdf|here.]]

==== Latin America ====
On the 5th of June 2025 the Working Group Latin America met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:202506 Presentation GMG Working Group Latin America meeting.pdf|here.]]

On the 14th of November 2025 the Working Group Latin America had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251114 Latin America GMG Work group meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Africa ====
On the 23th of May 2025 the Working Group Africa met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:20250523 GMG Working group Africa meeting.pdf|here.]]

On the 7th of November 2025 the Working Group Africa had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251107 Africa Workgroup GMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

==== Beef ====
On the 17th of June 2025 the Working Group Beef met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:202506 GMG Working group Beef meeting.pdf|here.]]

On the 11th of November 2025 the Working Group Beef had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251106 GMG Working group Beef meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Asia ====
On the 1th of July 2025 the Working Group Asia met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:20250701 AsiaGMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

On the 25th of November the Working Group Asia organized a webinar for parties interested in contributing to the Asia group. You can find slides on data to impact [[:File:GMG Asia From data to impact.pdf|here]], an introduction into the GMG [[:File:Asia 20251105.pdf|here]], slides on methane recording techniques [[:File:2511 GMG Asia MethaneMethods.pdf|here]] and a presentation about [[Laser Methane Detector|LMD]] and their experiences from ILRI [[:File:ILRI LMD Exp 2025.pdf|here]].

==== Webinars ====
On the 22th of May 2025 there was a webinar for all GMG project participants on effective records in the database, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:250515 GMG meeting Dairy Working Group.pdf|here.]]

== DAFNE ==
Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences at the University of Tuscia. Their main purpose is to collect primary emissions data from sniffers and GF to have emissions factors related to the species, breed, physiological state and diet management. They are engaged with ANAFIBJ and sharing data related to Holstein cattle with them for genetic evaluations. Currently they are running trials with sheep and buffalo.

=== Sheep ===
For this trial they are comparing 2 grazing methods using 2 groups of Sopravissana sheep, reared at the facility.

# Rotational, 18 sheep. Turns every 4 days on strip paddocks. 18 paddocks in total; 6 heads on 3 strip paddocks per turn of grazing. After 24 days the sheep are back to the first three strips.
# Continuous, 18 sheep. Continuous grazing on same paddock. 3 paddocks in total; 6 heads per paddock.

Subgroups for both group A and B (6 heads) are randomly arranged every day. The 18 strip paddocks are the same total size as the three continuous paddocks. They have the same number of heads grazing and the same live weight load.

Both groups are balanced for BW, receive the same hay in quantity and quality with ad libitum access and spend the same time at pasture. Daily sampling of the hay and residual per group is done, weekly sub samples of hay and residual are analyzed. In parallel fresh grass is sampled and analyzed to represent the 2 grazing methods.

The GreenFeed is located in the barn, at 9AM this barn is closed for group A and opens for group B and this switches every day. The GreenFeed is the only place they can get concentrates. Nutritional information for this concentrate can be found [[:File:Nutritional table sheep DAFHNE.docx|here]]. Amount of food and cup drops can be found here.

Trial started end of March 2025 and will last 1.5 months. They are using the GF adapted for small ruminants.

=== Buffalo ===
This is a continuous trial which will last 4 months per supplement tested. First they monitor the buffalo for 4 weeks without supplement as a control diet and then there will be an 8 week experimental period with the supplement diet. During the entire period the buffalo are confined to the barn.

The buffalo are separated in two groups, in adjacent pens. One group has access to a milking robot, with the MooLogger from [[Sniffer SOP|Tecnosens.]] The other pen has a conventional milking system and the GreenFeed is placed facing this pen.

All buffaloes are fed the same concentrates. Nutritional information for this concentrate can be found [[:File:Nutritional table Buffalo DAFHNE.docx|here]]. Amount of food and cup drops can be found here. The buffalo’s in the GF group get the concentrates from the GF and about 1 kg of concentrates during milking operations. The buffalo’s in the sniffer group only get concentrates from the milking robot, which is about 2 kg/head/day.

To account for the emissions recorded individually at different times, they compare the emissions data aggregated on a daily basis. They are using the GF adapted for large ruminants with horns

== MethaBreed ==
[[File:P-2025-1-15-2 FBF Logo MethaBreed Logo 01 4C-01 klein.png|thumb|170x170px]]
The MethaBreed project aims to improve the sustainability of dairy production by developing innovative breeding strategies for dairy cows that simultaneously reduce methane emissions, enhance feed efficiency, and support animal health. A large-scale longitudinal study is being conducted in commercial dairy herds. Using advanced technologies, individual cow traits are recorded across entire lactations and multiple lactation cycles. Data collection includes continuous monitoring of methane emissions using sniffers, feed intake (using CFIT: Cattle Feed Intake System), body weight (using CFIT and scales), and key health parameters. A particular focus lies on the role of the rumen microbiome in methane production. A central goal of MethaBreed is the development of a new breeding value for methane emissions, enabling the selection of animals with lower environmental impact. These data will be integrated with pedigree and genomic information to allow precise breeding decisions. At the same time, the existing breeding value for feed efficiency will be further refined. The outcomes of the project are expected to make a significant contribution towards more climate-friendly dairy production. In the long term, standardized breeding values will be provided, enabling breeding organizations and farmers to actively select for healthier, more efficient, and more sustainable dairy cows. For more information you can visit the following websites from the partners: [https://www.uni-giessen.de/de/fbz/fb09/institute/ith/ag-koenig/forschung/laufend/methabreed University Giessen], [https://www.fbf-forschung.de/aktuelles/methabreed-neues-forschungsprojekt-zur-reduzierung.html FBF], [https://livestock-functional-microbiology.uni-hohenheim.de/en/research-projects#jfmulticontent_c401477-2 University of Hohenheim.] Further partners are [https://www.vit.de/ vit] and [https://www.uni-kiel.de/de/aef/fakultaet/institute/tierzucht-tierhaltung University Kiel]. The project is funded by the German Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Regional Identity on the basis of a resolution of the German Bundestag. The project management is carried out by the Federal Office for Agriculture and Food (BLE) within the framework of the Federal Programme for Livestock Farming. Funding reference numbers: 28KTF23C01–05.

== Presentation materials ==

=== Seminar by Julius van der Werf: Breeding for a changing climate 13-05-2025 ===
On the 13th of May Julius van de Werf gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on selection indexes for selecting low methane livestock, focused on sheep. You can find the slides [[:File:20250513 Seminar J.v.d.Werf.pdf|here]]. You can find the recording of the presentation below.

<youtube>PxKmxKVvVEA?si=C6x0keKAvgU009Da</youtube>

=== Seminar by Maria Frizzarin: Introduction to milk mid-infrared spectroscopy 10-07-2025 ===
On the 10th of July Maria Frizzarin gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on milk mid-infrared spectroscopy, equations development, and applications. You can find the slides [[:File:10072025 Seminar Maria MIR.pdf|here.]]

=== Seminar by Sarah-Joe Burn: Breed4Green 25-09-2025 ===
On the 25th of September Sarah-Joe Burn gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on measuring methane emissions in commercial farms and establishing a comprehensive dataset for genetic studies. A similar presentations was given at EAAP 2025, you can find the slides to that presentation [[:File:Eaap2025-breed4green-linke.pdf|here]] and the abstract [[:File:2025 Innsbruck EAAP Book Abstracts.pdf|here]], page 250.

=== Joint ICAR Feed&Gas and ASGGN workshop ===
On the 5th of October the joint workshop between the [https://www.icar.org/group/working-group-feed-and-gas/ ICAR Feed&Gas working group] and the [https://www.asggn.org/ ASGGN] took place before the GGAA conference in Nairobi. The presentations can be found below.

[[:File:2025 ASGGN - GGAA - A Taste of the Future Buccal Swabbing for Rumen Microbial ProfilingTB.pdf|A Taste of the Future: Buccal Swabbing for Rumen Microbial Profiling]]. Presented by Ben Perry ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:2638 Booker ILRI GGAA ASGGN Oct 2025.pdf|Rate of Genetic Gain for Methane Emissions in a Maternal Production Flock]]. Presented by Fem Booker ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:Boris ICAR2025 v01.pdf|Association between rumen and faecal microbiome and enteric methane emissions in dairy cattle]]. Presented by Boris Sepulveda ([https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/ AV])

[[:File:CaeliRichardson GGAA Workshop 2025.pdf|Global Framework to Monitor, Measure, and Account for Methane Reductions from Genetic Selection]]. Presented by Caeli Richardson ([https://abacusbio.com/ Abacusbio])

[[:File:GGAA Workshop ICAR and ASGGN Ida Storm.pdf|Danish Perspectives on implementation of GHG regulation]]. Presented by Ida Storm ([https://agricultureandfood.dk/ DAFG])

[[:File:GGAA Workshop ICAR and ASGGN Rasmus Stephansen.pdf|Experience with CH4 sniffers, what have we learned so far?]] Presented by Rasmus Stephansen ([https://international.au.dk/ AU])

[[:File:GGAA workshop MIR methane presentation.pdf|Overview of the methane equations developed from mid-infrared spectroscopy and their applications.]] Presented by Maria Frizzarin ([https://www.agroscope.admin.ch/agroscope/en/home.html Agroscope])

[[:File:HanneHonerlagen ICARpresentation.pdf|Adding microbial data to enhance breeding for lower methane emissions]]. Presented by Hanne Honerlagen ([https://www.wur.nl/en/research-results/chair-groups/animal-sciences/animal-breeding-and-genomics-group.htm WUR-ABG])

[[:File:McNaughton ASGGN Workshop final.pdf|GreenFeed for phenotyping – our experiences]]. Presented by Lorna McNaughton ([https://www.lic.co.nz/ LIC])

[[:File:MIE ILRI GGAA ASGGN Oct 2025.pdf|Methane Index Explorer: Optimising a Breeding Value Format for Simultaneous Inclusion of Enteric Methane Emissions in Breeding Schemes and National Inventories]]. Presented by Pavithra Ariyarathne ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:RiccardoGGAA Presentation RB.pdf|ZELP sense]]. Presented by Riccardo Bica ([https://www.zelp.co/ ZELP])

[[:File:ICAR Working group Nairobi 5 Oct2025.pdf|Selection for lower methane livestock, selection index considerations]]. Presented by Julius van der Werf (UNE)

Measuring enteric methane in beef and dairy cattle using PAC. Presented by Timothy Bilton ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])<youtube>https://youtu.be/NjPuotrmkMQ</youtube>

Estimating methane emissions with the GreenFeed System. Presented by Paul Smith ([https://teagasc.ie/ Teagasc]) <youtube>https://youtu.be/TnHefWoP29I</youtube>

Section 20: Activities

2026-01-07T08:16:57Z

Cvangemert: Added smaller logo, first one was too big

<center>
<big>
NOTE: This version of Section 20 has been approved by the working group's Chair. Please be aware that further revisions may occur before final review and approval by the Board and ICAR members per the [[Approval of Page Process]].

</big>
</center>
== Global Methane Genetics ==
[[File:GMG label.png|right|frameless|300x300px]]
The Global Methane Genetics (GMG) initiative is a global program to accelerate genetic progress in methane emission in ruminants in the Global North and South. This WUR-ABG coordinated initiative is funded by the [https://www.globalmethanehub.org/ Global Methane Hub] and the [https://www.bezosearthfund.org/ Bezos Earth Fund,] both based on philanthropic funds to support methane mitigation and prevent global warming. If you have questions about the [https://www.wur.nl/en/project/global-methane-genetics-initiative.htm GMG initiative] you can send an email to gmg@wur.nl, contact Roel Veerkamp: roel.veerkamp@wur.nl or Birgit Gredler-Grandl: birgit.gredler-grandl@wur.nl.

The initiative holds the following projects:

=== '''Dairy Cattle''' ===
We can look to nature to reduce CH4 emissions and use genetic diversity to provide solutions. Genetic improvement, based on identifying animals with genetic predisposition for lower CH4 output and using them to breed for the next generations, is a reliable, cost-effective, and permanent method for transforming livestock's impact on the environment. Breeding programs in dairy cattle are run within breeds and across countries. Therefore, the program will accelerate genetic progress by focusing on four major dairy breeds and organizations and countries involved in those breeds. Additionally, the program will acquire considerable leverage through investments in these countries. If you have questions about the dairy cattle section you can contact Birgit Gredler-Grandl: birgit.gredler-grandl@wur.nl.

==== ''Holstein breed'' ====
The largest data collection has been for the Holstein breed, but there is a lack of standardization and protocols in terms of equipment and its utilization (farm level, data processing, data sharing agreements, genetic evaluations, and data collections). Governments and breeding organizations in Denmark and the Netherlands will collaborate and collect methane and genotypes on more than 20,000 Holstein cows for the GMG database. Also, Poland and Italy team up to collect data for the GMG database, and their aim is also to collect more than 20,000 Holstein animals and develop genetic evaluations across a wide range of systems.

===== Denmark-The Netherlands =====
This collaboration between Aarhus University and Wageningen Livestock Research has five main goals. The contact person for questions about this project is Trine Villumsen: tmv@qgg.au.dk.

* Setting up Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for measuring methane using sniffers
* Setting up international protocols to measure methane on commercial farms
* Develop software tools to automate the processing of data into a phenotype
* Combine historical data in both countries for genetic evaluations
* Measure enteric methane in 20.000 new cows.

===== Poland-Italy =====
This collaboration has the following main goals. The contact person for questions about this project is Raffaella Finocchiaro raffaellafinocchiaro@anafibj.it.

* Measure enteric methane in 20.000 new cows.

==== ''Jersey breed'' ====
Currently, due to the limited data available, the Jersey dairy breed does not have breeding values for methane (CH4) mitigation. The goal of the program is to collect methane genotypes in Canada and Denmark and share this information with the GMG database. The aim is to develop breeding values that will be distributed through the World Jersey Cattle Bureau organization and national Jersey organizations in Australia, Canada, Switzerland, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and New Zealand. If you have questions about the Jersey breed section you can contact Rasmus Bak Stephansen rasmus.stephansen@qgg.au.dk

==== ''Brown Swiss breed'' ====
The Brown Swiss (BS) breed faces significant challenges due to its small population size, an divers environments the animals are kept. A collaboration between Germany, Switzerland, and Austria to phenotype enough animals is a prerequisite for utilizing the genetic potential of reducing methane emission of the BS breed. In addition to a population of 250 cows recorded with Greenfeed, and 1250 with the sniffer, progress will be accelerated by recording an additional 3,360 cows with sniffers. If you have questions about the Brown Swiss breed section you can contact Elena Frenken: fe@fbf-forschung.de.

==== ''Red breeds'' ====
The red breeds are important for crossbreeding in many countries around the world. The project aims to share and collect CH4 data from Red Dairy Cattle (RDC) breeds (in the Nordic countries, Canada, and the United Kingdom (UK)) and share it with the Global Methane Genetics (GMG) Hub. Together, they will set up a shared genetic evaluation for bulls used for crossbreeding in many more countries. If you have questions about the Red breed section you can contact Elisenda Rius-Vilarrasa: Elisenda.Rius-Vilarrasa@vxa.se.

=== '''Beef Cattle''' ===

==== ''Bluegrass (global beef)'' ====
All industries world-wide have been challenged with reducing emissions and beef is no exception. Genetic selection and specifically genomic selection have been identified as key tools to help meet this challenge. Methane emissions are not a local problem, but a global one and several major beef producing countries who exchange genetic material have, are, and will be collecting methane phenotypes for the purpose of genomic prediction. Individually (including those in Australia), these datasets will be limited in their genomic prediction accuracy. The BLUEGRASS alliance will bring together the key players globally, who collectively have solicited key seed funding from the Global Methane Hub. By sharing data and resources, the development of necessary reference populations will be accelerated. Locally or globally, success in the beef genetics industry has been a model of ‘co-opetition’. Breeders, although competitors, pool resources to build tools that can be used by all to compete with one another. This BLUEGRASS alliance is no different. A global alliance will come together to address this challenge, with or without Australia. Having Australia lead and ignite the alliance with MDC co-funding will create opportunities to direct this global initiative and provide first mover advantages for Australian breeders.

The program is focused on building genomic reference datasets for the main beef breeds in the collaborating countries. The animals to be recorded will be intensively recorded for other production traits, and genotyped, outside this project itself. In each country, trial or research breeding values will be produced and delivered to industry during the life of the project – enabling genetic selection against methane to get underway, and the data will underpin the ability to genomically screen the entire populations of the breeds involved in the respective countries i.e. all seedstock and commercial animals. The data collected will likely assist development of genomic selection against methane in other countries. The accelerated genetic selection and the commercial animal screening will enable real impact to reduce methane from beef cattle. If you have questions about the bluegrass project specifically, you can contact Steve Miller, steve.miller@une.edu.au

===== Number of phenotypes =====
This project will phenotype methane traits in beef cattle populations in the US, Australia, the UK, Ireland, and New Zealand. Around 18.500 phenotypes will be collected over all years and countries. It is estimated that around 7.000 phenotypes will be collected in Australia, around 1.600 in New Zealand, around 800 in the UK, around 2.000 in Ireland and around 7.00 in the USA.
===== Breeds and traits included =====
All countries included in the Bluegrass project have different breeds and different target traits included in their measurements, besides the methane phenotypes.

Australia will focus on Angus and Hereford seedstock with a research population of Angus, Wagyu, Charolais, Shorthorn and Brahman being a target as well. For the seedstock they will focus on seedstock traits plus methane measurements using PAC measures. For the research populations on seedstock traits plus feed intake, carcass as well as methane measurements with PAC.

For New Zealand priority is the progeny test herds. These are mostly Angus, Hereford and their crosses, including a diallel cross design. Some Angus x Simmental. Complete requirements with seedstock herds of Angus and Hereford. Focus is on the following: progeny test, seedstock traits, conception date (via fetal aging) from natural mate at yearling (then re-breeding), carcass grading on steers, feed intake on heifers, rumen microbiome on steers and heifers, seedstock traits from seedstock herds

For the UK focus lies on Angus and Hereford sired animals, both pedigree and crossbred (including from dairy dams) and they focus on liveweights.

For Ireland they include multi-breed/crossbreed. 30% Charolais and Limousin sired from Continental type suckler dams, 30% Holstein-Friesian and 40% beef (mostly Angus) cross dairy. They will focus on feed intake, liveweight and carcass data.

The USA will be measuring Angus focused on seedstock traits from seedstock herds.

==== ''US beef'' ====
This project will accelerate genetic selection for reduced methane emissions from U.S. and Canadian beef cattle, through phenotyping and genotyping the 18 most influential beef breeds in North America.

The primary activities of this project will center on phenotyping and genetic evaluation of the Germplasm Evaluation (GPE) herd, a large, multibreed resource population at the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) in Nebraska, USA. This herd is structured to represent the genetic diversity of the 18 most influential beef breeds in the U.S.. These 18 breeds are: Angus, Red Angus, Hereford, South Devon, Shorthorn, Beefmaster, Brangus, Brahman, Santa Gertrudis, Braunvieh, ChiAngus, Charolais, Gelbvieh, Limousin, Maine-Anjou, Salers, Simmental, Tarentaise.

Recording of methane phenotypes will occur using multiple approaches to not only maximize the number of phenotypes collected, but to also offer a comparison between methodologies within a U.S. beef production system. Based on these findings and in coordination with other GMG project teams, standard operating procedures for methane phenotyping of beef cattle will be developed and integrated into the [https://beefimprovement.org/resource-center/bif-guidelines/ Guidelines for Uniform Beef Improvement Programs] supporting the evolution of these approaches into standard practice and routine evaluation in any beef breeding system. If you have questions about the US beef project specifically, you can contact Matthew Spangler, mspangler2@unl.edu.

===== Main goals =====
* Recording methane phenotypes from at least 5,500 multi-breed genotyped beef cattle and openly sharing to the GMG database and the public domain.
* Development and publication of uniform guidelines for both methane phenotyping in beef cattle systems and the integration of methane phenotypes into beef genetic evaluations, through the BIF Guidelines wiki.
* Dissemination and routine updating of genetic parameter and genomic marker effects critical for the development of genetic selection tools and deployment of methane-reducing breeding programs.

=== '''Sheep''' ===
This project focusses on recording methane phenotypes on animals in various populations, e.g. Merino, Texel, Dohne, Corriedale, maternal and terminal. In each case, those animals will be recorded for a range of other production, health, product quality and welfare traits (the exact suite of traits varies between countries). This ensures that it will be possible to determine the genetic relationships between methane traits and the other traits included in current and future selection indexes and breeding programs – meaning that breeders will be able to make informed decisions on any trade-offs between methane and other traits. In total around 16.600 methane phenotypes will be collected over all years and countries. It is estimated that around 7.500 methane phenotypes will be collected in Australia, 3.000 in Uruguay, 4.000 in New Zealand, 1.200 in the UK and 1.000 in the UK. If you have questions about the sheep project specifically, you can contact Daniel Brown, dbrown2@une.edu.au
==== Main goals ====
* Phenotyping and reference populations. Fast tracked phenotyping and genotyping up to 16,000 records of methane traits across the key countries to facilitate accurate international evaluation of animals (Table 2).
* Genetic evaluation and models. Breeding values based on international genomic evaluation models to share the benefits of the established reference populations.
* Proxies. Development and validation of new phenotyping methods to expedite genetic progress.
* Breeding Programs. Whole farm system models to incorporate methane into breeding objectives in a balanced way and indexes to facilitate selection of breeding candidates.
* Education and adoption. Stakeholder engagement campaign and international development to ensure world-wide impact.

=== '''Africa''' ===
This project focused on three regions of Africa (Eastern, Western and Southern Africa). It will will leverage and accelerate on-going early research on GHG in these regions, strongly build capacity and team up with researchers to record CH4, other economic productive traits and use the records to implement breeding strategies to reduce CH4 emission while simultaneously enhancing productivity, food security and employment opportunities in the dairy and beef cattle farming systems; The source of livelihood for many poorly resourced farmers.

Tapping into the existing breeding program infrastructure for improved productivity for dairy cattle in the three regions of Africa, this project will result in overall program that will accelerate genetic progress through focus on phenotyping, genotyping and the use of information from the microbiome in the genetic selection of animals in the smallholder dairy system. The overall impact will be better mitigation of negative effects of climate change and more productive cows. Through selection programs based on the index developed with the phenotypic and genomic information from this project.

The major activities include the direct CH4 measurements on about 1.655 tropical cattle using [[Greenfeed SOP|GreenFeed]] and the use of [[Laser Methane Detector|LMD]] in smallholder farmers. Genotypic information and phenotypes captured routinely on major important productive traits that influence profitability, income and livelihood of farmers on 1.619 animals. Data sets will be linked to a larger existing data on 9.000 cows with phenotypic and genotypic information from existing projects. If you have questions about the Africa project specifically, you can contact Raphael Mrode, raphael.mrode@sruc.ac.uk

==== Main goals ====

* Methane measurements available on 1.655 tropical cows.
* Tissue samples and genotypes available on 1.619 tropical cows.
* Genetic relationship between dairy cows in Western and Eastern Africa estimated.
* Multi-trait genomic analysis of dairy data and methane in Eastern Africa.
* Incorporate existing data on over 9.000 cows from existing research projects to enhance genomic prediction.
* Computation and the roll out of final selection index or sub-indexes developed for improved efficiency - reduced CH4 emission, lower maintenance requirement and increased milk production.

=== '''Latin America''' ===
The aim of this project is to accelerate the reduction of enteric methane emissions in beef cattle in Latin America through genetic selection in key breeds relevant to Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, and Mexico. The focus will be on phenotyping methane emissions and genotyping animals linked to existing genetic improvement programs. Reference populations for genomic selection will be the basis to improve the estimation of genetic merit and select for lower emission. The link with ongoing genetic improvement programs provides data on other economically relevant production traits, thus making it possible to estimate genetic correlations and optimize methane emission reductions with a minimum impact on livestock productivity. This approach minimizes negative impacts on food production while preserving economic, social, and environmental sustainability of beef cattle farming. This collaborative project between national agricultural research institutes (NARI) is supported by breeders’ associations and other key stakeholders. Public-private partnerships and collaborative efforts will scale genetic evaluation for methane emissions as well as the use of lower methane emission genetics on commercial farms. Phenotypic and genomic data from approximately 7.000 animals will be made globally available. In synergy with other projects, it will be possible to increase the size of reference populations leading to an even greater impact on methane emissions mitigation. If you have questions about the Latin America project specifically, you can contact Elly Navajas, enavajas@inia.org.uy

For developing methane emission phenotyping platforms and reference populations, it is essential to upgrade methane emission recording equipment as well as standardize and coordinate the measurement of animals. Standardized protocols will be developed in collaboration with ICAR, and the criteria for selecting animals to be measured and genotyped will be established by the research team, including technicians from breeder associations. A critical component of the project involves genetic analyses, such as estimating genetic parameters for methane emission-related traits, validating breeding values in additional populations, and evaluating the impact of selecting for reduced methane emissions. Scientific collaboration will be fostered with other beef cattle projects, focusing on areas such as expertise exchange. Communication strategies will be implemented to engage stakeholders, including breeders, artificial insemination centers, policymakers, and other private stakeholders. Dialogue with teams managing greenhouse gas (GHG) inventories and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) will also be enhanced. These activities require active collaboration among countries and stakeholders in Latin America to achieve successful outcomes.

==== Main goals ====

* A Latin American collaborative network for accelerating genetic improvement for methane emissions reduction is established by NARIs, universities, breeder societies, and private stakeholders engaged in genetic evaluation programs across South America and Mexico.
* Methane emission phenotyping platforms are implemented, enabling data collection across key beef cattle breeds, targeting 7.000 methane emission phenotypes and genotypes of animals linked to genetic evaluations.
* Genomic-enhanced estimated breeding values for methane emissions will be available to breeders: based on pure-breed and multi-breed reference populations enhanced through collaboration and data sharing across beef cattle projects within the GMG initiative.
* The economic and environmental impact of breeding strategies to reduce methane emissions is assessed, to identify the most promising breeding strategies to accelerate methane emission reduction. The development of breeding objectives combining methane emission reduction with production goals will support policy and incentives for breeders and farmers to overcome adoption barriers and integrate the results into national GHG inventories.

=== '''Microbiome''' ===
The micro-HUB project will establish a reference population with metagenome and genotype data, and create a genomic evaluation system that can be used to select the parents of the next generation with microbiome profiles that produce less enteric methane while maintaining genetic progress in profit and health. The genomic evaluation system will be widely open, will target most relevant breeds and production systems. Furthermore, a large global microbiome network will be established to collect existing data and knowledge and ensure knowledge transfer.

This project will start with metagenome and genomic data on 5.430 individuals from the core project partners, we will explore the opportunity to extend and expand our reference population to other countries with suitable data. By combining national data sets with genotypes, microbiome and methane information, we aim to create the largest rumen microbiome reference population globally. We aim to enlarge the reference population by more than 20.000 microbiome sequenced dairy and beef cattle as well as sheep from the Global Methane Genetics (GMG) program. From this, we will facilitate the delivery of genomic breeding values that can be used in global breeding programs to select for a microbiome composition with lower emissions and reduce the abundance of methanogenic pathways in the rumen microbiome of future generations of cattle and sheep. The project partners cover beef, dairy and sheep populations and creates an opportunity to identify a core microbiome (or set of cores) that can be used as a reference for nation-based breeding programs. The project will closely connect to the other projects within the Global Methane Program, to facilitate microbiome sampling, sequencing and genomic analysis. If you have questions about the microbiome project specifically, you can contact Oscar Gonzalez-Recio, oscar.gonzalezrecio@ed.ac.uk

==== Activities ====
To enlarge the national database partners will obtain additional samples from animals with methane and genotype data from different breeds and production systems within the GMG phenotyping program (dairy and beef cattle). The inclusion of samples from external partners will be encouraged. Partners (also external) will be provided with instruction to collect data and sample rumen microbiome. The micro-Hub will provide stewardship for GMG partners regarding sampling, storage and shipping, as well as bioinformatic analysis. Rumen metagenome sequencing will be centralized in as fewer labs as possible (ideally only one).

Reference populations from partners will be combined, covering a broad range of breeds and productions systems and different geographical regions. Format of the databases will be unified. The combined dataset will be used for the microbiome genomic evaluations. The reference database will be updated with additional data coming from external partners.

We will develop the capabilities to estimate the genomic breeding value for microbiome composition for any genotyped animal in similar productive conditions as those represented in our reference population. The goal is to propose recommendations based on own experience to include estimated genomic breeding values for rumen microbiome profile in breeding programs.

The project will contribute to the activities organized within Global Methane Genetics and the ICAR Feed&Gas working group in building a microbiome network to exchange knowledge, harmonize guidelines and develop protocols. All data generated within the project will be made available through the Global Methane Genetics database. The project will collaborate with the database development to develop microbiome sharing requirements and specifications.

==== Main goals ====

* Joint reference metagenome compiled.
* Microbiome genomic evaluations.
* Release of SNP coefficients for international genomic evaluations for microbiome compositions.
* Network building and establishment of platform for rumen metagenome data.

=== '''Working Group meetings''' ===

The six working groups as described above meet two times a year to discuss the progress of their projects and to share knowledge. There are also general webinars organized for the project participants throughout the years.

==== Dairy Cattle ====
On the 15th of May 2025 the Working Group Dairy cattle met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:250515 GMG meeting Dairy Working Group.pdf|here.]]

On the 27th of October 2025 the Working Group Cattle had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251027 GMG Working group Dairy meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Sheep ====
On the 20th of May 2025 the Working Sheep met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:20250520 Meeting GMG Working group sheep.pdf|here.]]

On the 11th of November 2025 the Working Group Sheep had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251111 Sheep Working Group GMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

==== Microbiome ====
On the 23th of May 2025 the Working Group Microbiome met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:202505 Global Meeting Genetics Microbiome working group meeting.pdf|here.]]

On the 27th of November 2025 the Working Group Microbiome had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251127 GMG Microbiome WG presentation.pdf|here.]]

On the 2nd of December 2025 the Working group microbiome organized a Q&A session about microbiome sampling. You can find the slides [[:File:20251202 GMG meeting MicroHub Q&A.pdf|here.]]

==== Latin America ====
On the 5th of June 2025 the Working Group Latin America met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:202506 Presentation GMG Working Group Latin America meeting.pdf|here.]]

On the 14th of November 2025 the Working Group Latin America had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251114 Latin America GMG Work group meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Africa ====
On the 23th of May 2025 the Working Group Africa met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:20250523 GMG Working group Africa meeting.pdf|here.]]

On the 7th of November 2025 the Working Group Africa had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251107 Africa Workgroup GMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

==== Beef ====
On the 17th of June 2025 the Working Group Beef met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:202506 GMG Working group Beef meeting.pdf|here.]]

On the 11th of November 2025 the Working Group Beef had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251106 GMG Working group Beef meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Asia ====
On the 1th of July 2025 the Working Group Asia met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:20250701 AsiaGMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

On the 25th of November the Working Group Asia organized a webinar for parties interested in contributing to the Asia group. You can find slides on data to impact [[:File:GMG Asia From data to impact.pdf|here]], an introduction into the GMG [[:File:Asia 20251105.pdf|here]], slides on methane recording techniques [[:File:2511 GMG Asia MethaneMethods.pdf|here]] and a presentation about [[Laser Methane Detector|LMD]] and their experiences from ILRI [[:File:ILRI LMD Exp 2025.pdf|here]].

==== Webinars ====
On the 22th of May 2025 there was a webinar for all GMG project participants on effective records in the database, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:250515 GMG meeting Dairy Working Group.pdf|here.]]

== DAFNE ==
Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences at the University of Tuscia. Their main purpose is to collect primary emissions data from sniffers and GF to have emissions factors related to the species, breed, physiological state and diet management. They are engaged with ANAFIBJ and sharing data related to Holstein cattle with them for genetic evaluations. Currently they are running trials with sheep and buffalo.

=== Sheep ===
For this trial they are comparing 2 grazing methods using 2 groups of Sopravissana sheep, reared at the facility.

# Rotational, 18 sheep. Turns every 4 days on strip paddocks. 18 paddocks in total; 6 heads on 3 strip paddocks per turn of grazing. After 24 days the sheep are back to the first three strips.
# Continuous, 18 sheep. Continuous grazing on same paddock. 3 paddocks in total; 6 heads per paddock.

Subgroups for both group A and B (6 heads) are randomly arranged every day. The 18 strip paddocks are the same total size as the three continuous paddocks. They have the same number of heads grazing and the same live weight load.

Both groups are balanced for BW, receive the same hay in quantity and quality with ad libitum access and spend the same time at pasture. Daily sampling of the hay and residual per group is done, weekly sub samples of hay and residual are analyzed. In parallel fresh grass is sampled and analyzed to represent the 2 grazing methods.

The GreenFeed is located in the barn, at 9AM this barn is closed for group A and opens for group B and this switches every day. The GreenFeed is the only place they can get concentrates. Nutritional information for this concentrate can be found [[:File:Nutritional table sheep DAFHNE.docx|here]]. Amount of food and cup drops can be found here.

Trial started end of March 2025 and will last 1.5 months. They are using the GF adapted for small ruminants.

=== Buffalo ===
This is a continuous trial which will last 4 months per supplement tested. First they monitor the buffalo for 4 weeks without supplement as a control diet and then there will be an 8 week experimental period with the supplement diet. During the entire period the buffalo are confined to the barn.

The buffalo are separated in two groups, in adjacent pens. One group has access to a milking robot, with the MooLogger from [[Sniffer SOP|Tecnosens.]] The other pen has a conventional milking system and the GreenFeed is placed facing this pen.

All buffaloes are fed the same concentrates. Nutritional information for this concentrate can be found [[:File:Nutritional table Buffalo DAFHNE.docx|here]]. Amount of food and cup drops can be found here. The buffalo’s in the GF group get the concentrates from the GF and about 1 kg of concentrates during milking operations. The buffalo’s in the sniffer group only get concentrates from the milking robot, which is about 2 kg/head/day.

To account for the emissions recorded individually at different times, they compare the emissions data aggregated on a daily basis. They are using the GF adapted for large ruminants with horns

== MethaBreed ==
[[File:P-2025-1-15-2 FBF Logo MethaBreed Logo 01 4C-01 klein.png|thumb|170x170px]]
The MethaBreed project aims to improve the sustainability of dairy production by developing innovative breeding strategies for dairy cows that simultaneously reduce methane emissions, enhance feed efficiency, and support animal health. A large-scale longitudinal study is being conducted in commercial dairy herds. Using advanced technologies, individual cow traits are recorded across entire lactations and multiple lactation cycles. Data collection includes continuous monitoring of methane emissions using sniffers, feed intake (using CFIT: Cattle Feed Intake System), body weight (using CFIT and scales), and key health parameters. A particular focus lies on the role of the rumen microbiome in methane production. A central goal of MethaBreed is the development of a new breeding value for methane emissions, enabling the selection of animals with lower environmental impact. These data will be integrated with pedigree and genomic information to allow precise breeding decisions. At the same time, the existing breeding value for feed efficiency will be further refined. The outcomes of the project are expected to make a significant contribution towards more climate-friendly dairy production. In the long term, standardized breeding values will be provided, enabling breeding organizations and farmers to actively select for healthier, more efficient, and more sustainable dairy cows. For more information you can visit the following websites from the partners: [https://www.uni-giessen.de/de/fbz/fb09/institute/ith/ag-koenig/forschung/laufend/methabreed University Giessen], [https://www.fbf-forschung.de/aktuelles/methabreed-neues-forschungsprojekt-zur-reduzierung.html FBF], [https://livestock-functional-microbiology.uni-hohenheim.de/en/research-projects#jfmulticontent_c401477-2 University of Hohenheim.]

== Presentation materials ==

=== Seminar by Julius van der Werf: Breeding for a changing climate 13-05-2025 ===
On the 13th of May Julius van de Werf gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on selection indexes for selecting low methane livestock, focused on sheep. You can find the slides [[:File:20250513 Seminar J.v.d.Werf.pdf|here]]. You can find the recording of the presentation below.

<youtube>PxKmxKVvVEA?si=C6x0keKAvgU009Da</youtube>

=== Seminar by Maria Frizzarin: Introduction to milk mid-infrared spectroscopy 10-07-2025 ===
On the 10th of July Maria Frizzarin gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on milk mid-infrared spectroscopy, equations development, and applications. You can find the slides [[:File:10072025 Seminar Maria MIR.pdf|here.]]

=== Seminar by Sarah-Joe Burn: Breed4Green 25-09-2025 ===
On the 25th of September Sarah-Joe Burn gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on measuring methane emissions in commercial farms and establishing a comprehensive dataset for genetic studies. A similar presentations was given at EAAP 2025, you can find the slides to that presentation [[:File:Eaap2025-breed4green-linke.pdf|here]] and the abstract [[:File:2025 Innsbruck EAAP Book Abstracts.pdf|here]], page 250.

=== Joint ICAR Feed&Gas and ASGGN workshop ===
On the 5th of October the joint workshop between the [https://www.icar.org/group/working-group-feed-and-gas/ ICAR Feed&Gas working group] and the [https://www.asggn.org/ ASGGN] took place before the GGAA conference in Nairobi. The presentations can be found below.

[[:File:2025 ASGGN - GGAA - A Taste of the Future Buccal Swabbing for Rumen Microbial ProfilingTB.pdf|A Taste of the Future: Buccal Swabbing for Rumen Microbial Profiling]]. Presented by Ben Perry ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:2638 Booker ILRI GGAA ASGGN Oct 2025.pdf|Rate of Genetic Gain for Methane Emissions in a Maternal Production Flock]]. Presented by Fem Booker ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:Boris ICAR2025 v01.pdf|Association between rumen and faecal microbiome and enteric methane emissions in dairy cattle]]. Presented by Boris Sepulveda ([https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/ AV])

[[:File:CaeliRichardson GGAA Workshop 2025.pdf|Global Framework to Monitor, Measure, and Account for Methane Reductions from Genetic Selection]]. Presented by Caeli Richardson ([https://abacusbio.com/ Abacusbio])

[[:File:GGAA Workshop ICAR and ASGGN Ida Storm.pdf|Danish Perspectives on implementation of GHG regulation]]. Presented by Ida Storm ([https://agricultureandfood.dk/ DAFG])

[[:File:GGAA Workshop ICAR and ASGGN Rasmus Stephansen.pdf|Experience with CH4 sniffers, what have we learned so far?]] Presented by Rasmus Stephansen ([https://international.au.dk/ AU])

[[:File:GGAA workshop MIR methane presentation.pdf|Overview of the methane equations developed from mid-infrared spectroscopy and their applications.]] Presented by Maria Frizzarin ([https://www.agroscope.admin.ch/agroscope/en/home.html Agroscope])

[[:File:HanneHonerlagen ICARpresentation.pdf|Adding microbial data to enhance breeding for lower methane emissions]]. Presented by Hanne Honerlagen ([https://www.wur.nl/en/research-results/chair-groups/animal-sciences/animal-breeding-and-genomics-group.htm WUR-ABG])

[[:File:McNaughton ASGGN Workshop final.pdf|GreenFeed for phenotyping – our experiences]]. Presented by Lorna McNaughton ([https://www.lic.co.nz/ LIC])

[[:File:MIE ILRI GGAA ASGGN Oct 2025.pdf|Methane Index Explorer: Optimising a Breeding Value Format for Simultaneous Inclusion of Enteric Methane Emissions in Breeding Schemes and National Inventories]]. Presented by Pavithra Ariyarathne ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:RiccardoGGAA Presentation RB.pdf|ZELP sense]]. Presented by Riccardo Bica ([https://www.zelp.co/ ZELP])

[[:File:ICAR Working group Nairobi 5 Oct2025.pdf|Selection for lower methane livestock, selection index considerations]]. Presented by Julius van der Werf (UNE)

Measuring enteric methane in beef and dairy cattle using PAC. Presented by Timothy Bilton ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])<youtube>https://youtu.be/NjPuotrmkMQ</youtube>

Estimating methane emissions with the GreenFeed System. Presented by Paul Smith ([https://teagasc.ie/ Teagasc]) <youtube>https://youtu.be/TnHefWoP29I</youtube>

File:P-2025-1-15-2 FBF Logo MethaBreed Logo 01 4C-01 klein.png

2026-01-07T08:15:22Z

Cvangemert:

MethaBreed logo klein

Section 20: Activities

2026-01-07T08:13:11Z

Cvangemert: /* MethaBreed */ added logo

<center>
<big>
NOTE: This version of Section 20 has been approved by the working group's Chair. Please be aware that further revisions may occur before final review and approval by the Board and ICAR members per the [[Approval of Page Process]].

</big>
</center>
== Global Methane Genetics ==
[[File:GMG label.png|right|frameless|300x300px]]
The Global Methane Genetics (GMG) initiative is a global program to accelerate genetic progress in methane emission in ruminants in the Global North and South. This WUR-ABG coordinated initiative is funded by the [https://www.globalmethanehub.org/ Global Methane Hub] and the [https://www.bezosearthfund.org/ Bezos Earth Fund,] both based on philanthropic funds to support methane mitigation and prevent global warming. If you have questions about the [https://www.wur.nl/en/project/global-methane-genetics-initiative.htm GMG initiative] you can send an email to gmg@wur.nl, contact Roel Veerkamp: roel.veerkamp@wur.nl or Birgit Gredler-Grandl: birgit.gredler-grandl@wur.nl.

The initiative holds the following projects:

=== '''Dairy Cattle''' ===
We can look to nature to reduce CH4 emissions and use genetic diversity to provide solutions. Genetic improvement, based on identifying animals with genetic predisposition for lower CH4 output and using them to breed for the next generations, is a reliable, cost-effective, and permanent method for transforming livestock's impact on the environment. Breeding programs in dairy cattle are run within breeds and across countries. Therefore, the program will accelerate genetic progress by focusing on four major dairy breeds and organizations and countries involved in those breeds. Additionally, the program will acquire considerable leverage through investments in these countries. If you have questions about the dairy cattle section you can contact Birgit Gredler-Grandl: birgit.gredler-grandl@wur.nl.

==== ''Holstein breed'' ====
The largest data collection has been for the Holstein breed, but there is a lack of standardization and protocols in terms of equipment and its utilization (farm level, data processing, data sharing agreements, genetic evaluations, and data collections). Governments and breeding organizations in Denmark and the Netherlands will collaborate and collect methane and genotypes on more than 20,000 Holstein cows for the GMG database. Also, Poland and Italy team up to collect data for the GMG database, and their aim is also to collect more than 20,000 Holstein animals and develop genetic evaluations across a wide range of systems.

===== Denmark-The Netherlands =====
This collaboration between Aarhus University and Wageningen Livestock Research has five main goals. The contact person for questions about this project is Trine Villumsen: tmv@qgg.au.dk.

* Setting up Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for measuring methane using sniffers
* Setting up international protocols to measure methane on commercial farms
* Develop software tools to automate the processing of data into a phenotype
* Combine historical data in both countries for genetic evaluations
* Measure enteric methane in 20.000 new cows.

===== Poland-Italy =====
This collaboration has the following main goals. The contact person for questions about this project is Raffaella Finocchiaro raffaellafinocchiaro@anafibj.it.

* Measure enteric methane in 20.000 new cows.

==== ''Jersey breed'' ====
Currently, due to the limited data available, the Jersey dairy breed does not have breeding values for methane (CH4) mitigation. The goal of the program is to collect methane genotypes in Canada and Denmark and share this information with the GMG database. The aim is to develop breeding values that will be distributed through the World Jersey Cattle Bureau organization and national Jersey organizations in Australia, Canada, Switzerland, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and New Zealand. If you have questions about the Jersey breed section you can contact Rasmus Bak Stephansen rasmus.stephansen@qgg.au.dk

==== ''Brown Swiss breed'' ====
The Brown Swiss (BS) breed faces significant challenges due to its small population size, an divers environments the animals are kept. A collaboration between Germany, Switzerland, and Austria to phenotype enough animals is a prerequisite for utilizing the genetic potential of reducing methane emission of the BS breed. In addition to a population of 250 cows recorded with Greenfeed, and 1250 with the sniffer, progress will be accelerated by recording an additional 3,360 cows with sniffers. If you have questions about the Brown Swiss breed section you can contact Elena Frenken: fe@fbf-forschung.de.

==== ''Red breeds'' ====
The red breeds are important for crossbreeding in many countries around the world. The project aims to share and collect CH4 data from Red Dairy Cattle (RDC) breeds (in the Nordic countries, Canada, and the United Kingdom (UK)) and share it with the Global Methane Genetics (GMG) Hub. Together, they will set up a shared genetic evaluation for bulls used for crossbreeding in many more countries. If you have questions about the Red breed section you can contact Elisenda Rius-Vilarrasa: Elisenda.Rius-Vilarrasa@vxa.se.

=== '''Beef Cattle''' ===

==== ''Bluegrass (global beef)'' ====
All industries world-wide have been challenged with reducing emissions and beef is no exception. Genetic selection and specifically genomic selection have been identified as key tools to help meet this challenge. Methane emissions are not a local problem, but a global one and several major beef producing countries who exchange genetic material have, are, and will be collecting methane phenotypes for the purpose of genomic prediction. Individually (including those in Australia), these datasets will be limited in their genomic prediction accuracy. The BLUEGRASS alliance will bring together the key players globally, who collectively have solicited key seed funding from the Global Methane Hub. By sharing data and resources, the development of necessary reference populations will be accelerated. Locally or globally, success in the beef genetics industry has been a model of ‘co-opetition’. Breeders, although competitors, pool resources to build tools that can be used by all to compete with one another. This BLUEGRASS alliance is no different. A global alliance will come together to address this challenge, with or without Australia. Having Australia lead and ignite the alliance with MDC co-funding will create opportunities to direct this global initiative and provide first mover advantages for Australian breeders.

The program is focused on building genomic reference datasets for the main beef breeds in the collaborating countries. The animals to be recorded will be intensively recorded for other production traits, and genotyped, outside this project itself. In each country, trial or research breeding values will be produced and delivered to industry during the life of the project – enabling genetic selection against methane to get underway, and the data will underpin the ability to genomically screen the entire populations of the breeds involved in the respective countries i.e. all seedstock and commercial animals. The data collected will likely assist development of genomic selection against methane in other countries. The accelerated genetic selection and the commercial animal screening will enable real impact to reduce methane from beef cattle. If you have questions about the bluegrass project specifically, you can contact Steve Miller, steve.miller@une.edu.au

===== Number of phenotypes =====
This project will phenotype methane traits in beef cattle populations in the US, Australia, the UK, Ireland, and New Zealand. Around 18.500 phenotypes will be collected over all years and countries. It is estimated that around 7.000 phenotypes will be collected in Australia, around 1.600 in New Zealand, around 800 in the UK, around 2.000 in Ireland and around 7.00 in the USA.
===== Breeds and traits included =====
All countries included in the Bluegrass project have different breeds and different target traits included in their measurements, besides the methane phenotypes.

Australia will focus on Angus and Hereford seedstock with a research population of Angus, Wagyu, Charolais, Shorthorn and Brahman being a target as well. For the seedstock they will focus on seedstock traits plus methane measurements using PAC measures. For the research populations on seedstock traits plus feed intake, carcass as well as methane measurements with PAC.

For New Zealand priority is the progeny test herds. These are mostly Angus, Hereford and their crosses, including a diallel cross design. Some Angus x Simmental. Complete requirements with seedstock herds of Angus and Hereford. Focus is on the following: progeny test, seedstock traits, conception date (via fetal aging) from natural mate at yearling (then re-breeding), carcass grading on steers, feed intake on heifers, rumen microbiome on steers and heifers, seedstock traits from seedstock herds

For the UK focus lies on Angus and Hereford sired animals, both pedigree and crossbred (including from dairy dams) and they focus on liveweights.

For Ireland they include multi-breed/crossbreed. 30% Charolais and Limousin sired from Continental type suckler dams, 30% Holstein-Friesian and 40% beef (mostly Angus) cross dairy. They will focus on feed intake, liveweight and carcass data.

The USA will be measuring Angus focused on seedstock traits from seedstock herds.

==== ''US beef'' ====
This project will accelerate genetic selection for reduced methane emissions from U.S. and Canadian beef cattle, through phenotyping and genotyping the 18 most influential beef breeds in North America.

The primary activities of this project will center on phenotyping and genetic evaluation of the Germplasm Evaluation (GPE) herd, a large, multibreed resource population at the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) in Nebraska, USA. This herd is structured to represent the genetic diversity of the 18 most influential beef breeds in the U.S.. These 18 breeds are: Angus, Red Angus, Hereford, South Devon, Shorthorn, Beefmaster, Brangus, Brahman, Santa Gertrudis, Braunvieh, ChiAngus, Charolais, Gelbvieh, Limousin, Maine-Anjou, Salers, Simmental, Tarentaise.

Recording of methane phenotypes will occur using multiple approaches to not only maximize the number of phenotypes collected, but to also offer a comparison between methodologies within a U.S. beef production system. Based on these findings and in coordination with other GMG project teams, standard operating procedures for methane phenotyping of beef cattle will be developed and integrated into the [https://beefimprovement.org/resource-center/bif-guidelines/ Guidelines for Uniform Beef Improvement Programs] supporting the evolution of these approaches into standard practice and routine evaluation in any beef breeding system. If you have questions about the US beef project specifically, you can contact Matthew Spangler, mspangler2@unl.edu.

===== Main goals =====
* Recording methane phenotypes from at least 5,500 multi-breed genotyped beef cattle and openly sharing to the GMG database and the public domain.
* Development and publication of uniform guidelines for both methane phenotyping in beef cattle systems and the integration of methane phenotypes into beef genetic evaluations, through the BIF Guidelines wiki.
* Dissemination and routine updating of genetic parameter and genomic marker effects critical for the development of genetic selection tools and deployment of methane-reducing breeding programs.

=== '''Sheep''' ===
This project focusses on recording methane phenotypes on animals in various populations, e.g. Merino, Texel, Dohne, Corriedale, maternal and terminal. In each case, those animals will be recorded for a range of other production, health, product quality and welfare traits (the exact suite of traits varies between countries). This ensures that it will be possible to determine the genetic relationships between methane traits and the other traits included in current and future selection indexes and breeding programs – meaning that breeders will be able to make informed decisions on any trade-offs between methane and other traits. In total around 16.600 methane phenotypes will be collected over all years and countries. It is estimated that around 7.500 methane phenotypes will be collected in Australia, 3.000 in Uruguay, 4.000 in New Zealand, 1.200 in the UK and 1.000 in the UK. If you have questions about the sheep project specifically, you can contact Daniel Brown, dbrown2@une.edu.au
==== Main goals ====
* Phenotyping and reference populations. Fast tracked phenotyping and genotyping up to 16,000 records of methane traits across the key countries to facilitate accurate international evaluation of animals (Table 2).
* Genetic evaluation and models. Breeding values based on international genomic evaluation models to share the benefits of the established reference populations.
* Proxies. Development and validation of new phenotyping methods to expedite genetic progress.
* Breeding Programs. Whole farm system models to incorporate methane into breeding objectives in a balanced way and indexes to facilitate selection of breeding candidates.
* Education and adoption. Stakeholder engagement campaign and international development to ensure world-wide impact.

=== '''Africa''' ===
This project focused on three regions of Africa (Eastern, Western and Southern Africa). It will will leverage and accelerate on-going early research on GHG in these regions, strongly build capacity and team up with researchers to record CH4, other economic productive traits and use the records to implement breeding strategies to reduce CH4 emission while simultaneously enhancing productivity, food security and employment opportunities in the dairy and beef cattle farming systems; The source of livelihood for many poorly resourced farmers.

Tapping into the existing breeding program infrastructure for improved productivity for dairy cattle in the three regions of Africa, this project will result in overall program that will accelerate genetic progress through focus on phenotyping, genotyping and the use of information from the microbiome in the genetic selection of animals in the smallholder dairy system. The overall impact will be better mitigation of negative effects of climate change and more productive cows. Through selection programs based on the index developed with the phenotypic and genomic information from this project.

The major activities include the direct CH4 measurements on about 1.655 tropical cattle using [[Greenfeed SOP|GreenFeed]] and the use of [[Laser Methane Detector|LMD]] in smallholder farmers. Genotypic information and phenotypes captured routinely on major important productive traits that influence profitability, income and livelihood of farmers on 1.619 animals. Data sets will be linked to a larger existing data on 9.000 cows with phenotypic and genotypic information from existing projects. If you have questions about the Africa project specifically, you can contact Raphael Mrode, raphael.mrode@sruc.ac.uk

==== Main goals ====

* Methane measurements available on 1.655 tropical cows.
* Tissue samples and genotypes available on 1.619 tropical cows.
* Genetic relationship between dairy cows in Western and Eastern Africa estimated.
* Multi-trait genomic analysis of dairy data and methane in Eastern Africa.
* Incorporate existing data on over 9.000 cows from existing research projects to enhance genomic prediction.
* Computation and the roll out of final selection index or sub-indexes developed for improved efficiency - reduced CH4 emission, lower maintenance requirement and increased milk production.

=== '''Latin America''' ===
The aim of this project is to accelerate the reduction of enteric methane emissions in beef cattle in Latin America through genetic selection in key breeds relevant to Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, and Mexico. The focus will be on phenotyping methane emissions and genotyping animals linked to existing genetic improvement programs. Reference populations for genomic selection will be the basis to improve the estimation of genetic merit and select for lower emission. The link with ongoing genetic improvement programs provides data on other economically relevant production traits, thus making it possible to estimate genetic correlations and optimize methane emission reductions with a minimum impact on livestock productivity. This approach minimizes negative impacts on food production while preserving economic, social, and environmental sustainability of beef cattle farming. This collaborative project between national agricultural research institutes (NARI) is supported by breeders’ associations and other key stakeholders. Public-private partnerships and collaborative efforts will scale genetic evaluation for methane emissions as well as the use of lower methane emission genetics on commercial farms. Phenotypic and genomic data from approximately 7.000 animals will be made globally available. In synergy with other projects, it will be possible to increase the size of reference populations leading to an even greater impact on methane emissions mitigation. If you have questions about the Latin America project specifically, you can contact Elly Navajas, enavajas@inia.org.uy

For developing methane emission phenotyping platforms and reference populations, it is essential to upgrade methane emission recording equipment as well as standardize and coordinate the measurement of animals. Standardized protocols will be developed in collaboration with ICAR, and the criteria for selecting animals to be measured and genotyped will be established by the research team, including technicians from breeder associations. A critical component of the project involves genetic analyses, such as estimating genetic parameters for methane emission-related traits, validating breeding values in additional populations, and evaluating the impact of selecting for reduced methane emissions. Scientific collaboration will be fostered with other beef cattle projects, focusing on areas such as expertise exchange. Communication strategies will be implemented to engage stakeholders, including breeders, artificial insemination centers, policymakers, and other private stakeholders. Dialogue with teams managing greenhouse gas (GHG) inventories and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) will also be enhanced. These activities require active collaboration among countries and stakeholders in Latin America to achieve successful outcomes.

==== Main goals ====

* A Latin American collaborative network for accelerating genetic improvement for methane emissions reduction is established by NARIs, universities, breeder societies, and private stakeholders engaged in genetic evaluation programs across South America and Mexico.
* Methane emission phenotyping platforms are implemented, enabling data collection across key beef cattle breeds, targeting 7.000 methane emission phenotypes and genotypes of animals linked to genetic evaluations.
* Genomic-enhanced estimated breeding values for methane emissions will be available to breeders: based on pure-breed and multi-breed reference populations enhanced through collaboration and data sharing across beef cattle projects within the GMG initiative.
* The economic and environmental impact of breeding strategies to reduce methane emissions is assessed, to identify the most promising breeding strategies to accelerate methane emission reduction. The development of breeding objectives combining methane emission reduction with production goals will support policy and incentives for breeders and farmers to overcome adoption barriers and integrate the results into national GHG inventories.

=== '''Microbiome''' ===
The micro-HUB project will establish a reference population with metagenome and genotype data, and create a genomic evaluation system that can be used to select the parents of the next generation with microbiome profiles that produce less enteric methane while maintaining genetic progress in profit and health. The genomic evaluation system will be widely open, will target most relevant breeds and production systems. Furthermore, a large global microbiome network will be established to collect existing data and knowledge and ensure knowledge transfer.

This project will start with metagenome and genomic data on 5.430 individuals from the core project partners, we will explore the opportunity to extend and expand our reference population to other countries with suitable data. By combining national data sets with genotypes, microbiome and methane information, we aim to create the largest rumen microbiome reference population globally. We aim to enlarge the reference population by more than 20.000 microbiome sequenced dairy and beef cattle as well as sheep from the Global Methane Genetics (GMG) program. From this, we will facilitate the delivery of genomic breeding values that can be used in global breeding programs to select for a microbiome composition with lower emissions and reduce the abundance of methanogenic pathways in the rumen microbiome of future generations of cattle and sheep. The project partners cover beef, dairy and sheep populations and creates an opportunity to identify a core microbiome (or set of cores) that can be used as a reference for nation-based breeding programs. The project will closely connect to the other projects within the Global Methane Program, to facilitate microbiome sampling, sequencing and genomic analysis. If you have questions about the microbiome project specifically, you can contact Oscar Gonzalez-Recio, oscar.gonzalezrecio@ed.ac.uk

==== Activities ====
To enlarge the national database partners will obtain additional samples from animals with methane and genotype data from different breeds and production systems within the GMG phenotyping program (dairy and beef cattle). The inclusion of samples from external partners will be encouraged. Partners (also external) will be provided with instruction to collect data and sample rumen microbiome. The micro-Hub will provide stewardship for GMG partners regarding sampling, storage and shipping, as well as bioinformatic analysis. Rumen metagenome sequencing will be centralized in as fewer labs as possible (ideally only one).

Reference populations from partners will be combined, covering a broad range of breeds and productions systems and different geographical regions. Format of the databases will be unified. The combined dataset will be used for the microbiome genomic evaluations. The reference database will be updated with additional data coming from external partners.

We will develop the capabilities to estimate the genomic breeding value for microbiome composition for any genotyped animal in similar productive conditions as those represented in our reference population. The goal is to propose recommendations based on own experience to include estimated genomic breeding values for rumen microbiome profile in breeding programs.

The project will contribute to the activities organized within Global Methane Genetics and the ICAR Feed&Gas working group in building a microbiome network to exchange knowledge, harmonize guidelines and develop protocols. All data generated within the project will be made available through the Global Methane Genetics database. The project will collaborate with the database development to develop microbiome sharing requirements and specifications.

==== Main goals ====

* Joint reference metagenome compiled.
* Microbiome genomic evaluations.
* Release of SNP coefficients for international genomic evaluations for microbiome compositions.
* Network building and establishment of platform for rumen metagenome data.

=== '''Working Group meetings''' ===

The six working groups as described above meet two times a year to discuss the progress of their projects and to share knowledge. There are also general webinars organized for the project participants throughout the years.

==== Dairy Cattle ====
On the 15th of May 2025 the Working Group Dairy cattle met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:250515 GMG meeting Dairy Working Group.pdf|here.]]

On the 27th of October 2025 the Working Group Cattle had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251027 GMG Working group Dairy meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Sheep ====
On the 20th of May 2025 the Working Sheep met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:20250520 Meeting GMG Working group sheep.pdf|here.]]

On the 11th of November 2025 the Working Group Sheep had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251111 Sheep Working Group GMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

==== Microbiome ====
On the 23th of May 2025 the Working Group Microbiome met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:202505 Global Meeting Genetics Microbiome working group meeting.pdf|here.]]

On the 27th of November 2025 the Working Group Microbiome had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251127 GMG Microbiome WG presentation.pdf|here.]]

On the 2nd of December 2025 the Working group microbiome organized a Q&A session about microbiome sampling. You can find the slides [[:File:20251202 GMG meeting MicroHub Q&A.pdf|here.]]

==== Latin America ====
On the 5th of June 2025 the Working Group Latin America met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:202506 Presentation GMG Working Group Latin America meeting.pdf|here.]]

On the 14th of November 2025 the Working Group Latin America had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251114 Latin America GMG Work group meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Africa ====
On the 23th of May 2025 the Working Group Africa met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:20250523 GMG Working group Africa meeting.pdf|here.]]

On the 7th of November 2025 the Working Group Africa had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251107 Africa Workgroup GMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

==== Beef ====
On the 17th of June 2025 the Working Group Beef met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:202506 GMG Working group Beef meeting.pdf|here.]]

On the 11th of November 2025 the Working Group Beef had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251106 GMG Working group Beef meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Asia ====
On the 1th of July 2025 the Working Group Asia met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:20250701 AsiaGMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

On the 25th of November the Working Group Asia organized a webinar for parties interested in contributing to the Asia group. You can find slides on data to impact [[:File:GMG Asia From data to impact.pdf|here]], an introduction into the GMG [[:File:Asia 20251105.pdf|here]], slides on methane recording techniques [[:File:2511 GMG Asia MethaneMethods.pdf|here]] and a presentation about [[Laser Methane Detector|LMD]] and their experiences from ILRI [[:File:ILRI LMD Exp 2025.pdf|here]].

==== Webinars ====
On the 22th of May 2025 there was a webinar for all GMG project participants on effective records in the database, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:250515 GMG meeting Dairy Working Group.pdf|here.]]

== DAFNE ==
Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences at the University of Tuscia. Their main purpose is to collect primary emissions data from sniffers and GF to have emissions factors related to the species, breed, physiological state and diet management. They are engaged with ANAFIBJ and sharing data related to Holstein cattle with them for genetic evaluations. Currently they are running trials with sheep and buffalo.

=== Sheep ===
For this trial they are comparing 2 grazing methods using 2 groups of Sopravissana sheep, reared at the facility.

# Rotational, 18 sheep. Turns every 4 days on strip paddocks. 18 paddocks in total; 6 heads on 3 strip paddocks per turn of grazing. After 24 days the sheep are back to the first three strips.
# Continuous, 18 sheep. Continuous grazing on same paddock. 3 paddocks in total; 6 heads per paddock.

Subgroups for both group A and B (6 heads) are randomly arranged every day. The 18 strip paddocks are the same total size as the three continuous paddocks. They have the same number of heads grazing and the same live weight load.

Both groups are balanced for BW, receive the same hay in quantity and quality with ad libitum access and spend the same time at pasture. Daily sampling of the hay and residual per group is done, weekly sub samples of hay and residual are analyzed. In parallel fresh grass is sampled and analyzed to represent the 2 grazing methods.

The GreenFeed is located in the barn, at 9AM this barn is closed for group A and opens for group B and this switches every day. The GreenFeed is the only place they can get concentrates. Nutritional information for this concentrate can be found [[:File:Nutritional table sheep DAFHNE.docx|here]]. Amount of food and cup drops can be found here.

Trial started end of March 2025 and will last 1.5 months. They are using the GF adapted for small ruminants.

=== Buffalo ===
This is a continuous trial which will last 4 months per supplement tested. First they monitor the buffalo for 4 weeks without supplement as a control diet and then there will be an 8 week experimental period with the supplement diet. During the entire period the buffalo are confined to the barn.

The buffalo are separated in two groups, in adjacent pens. One group has access to a milking robot, with the MooLogger from [[Sniffer SOP|Tecnosens.]] The other pen has a conventional milking system and the GreenFeed is placed facing this pen.

All buffaloes are fed the same concentrates. Nutritional information for this concentrate can be found [[:File:Nutritional table Buffalo DAFHNE.docx|here]]. Amount of food and cup drops can be found here. The buffalo’s in the GF group get the concentrates from the GF and about 1 kg of concentrates during milking operations. The buffalo’s in the sniffer group only get concentrates from the milking robot, which is about 2 kg/head/day.

To account for the emissions recorded individually at different times, they compare the emissions data aggregated on a daily basis. They are using the GF adapted for large ruminants with horns

== MethaBreed ==
[[File:P-2025-1-15-2 FBF Logo MethaBreed Logo 01 4C-01.png|thumb|175x175px]]
The MethaBreed project aims to improve the sustainability of dairy production by developing innovative breeding strategies for dairy cows that simultaneously reduce methane emissions, enhance feed efficiency, and support animal health. A large-scale longitudinal study is being conducted in commercial dairy herds. Using advanced technologies, individual cow traits are recorded across entire lactations and multiple lactation cycles. Data collection includes continuous monitoring of methane emissions using sniffers, feed intake (using CFIT: Cattle Feed Intake System), body weight (using CFIT and scales), and key health parameters. A particular focus lies on the role of the rumen microbiome in methane production. A central goal of MethaBreed is the development of a new breeding value for methane emissions, enabling the selection of animals with lower environmental impact. These data will be integrated with pedigree and genomic information to allow precise breeding decisions. At the same time, the existing breeding value for feed efficiency will be further refined. The outcomes of the project are expected to make a significant contribution towards more climate-friendly dairy production. In the long term, standardized breeding values will be provided, enabling breeding organizations and farmers to actively select for healthier, more efficient, and more sustainable dairy cows. For more information you can visit the following websites from the partners: [https://www.uni-giessen.de/de/fbz/fb09/institute/ith/ag-koenig/forschung/laufend/methabreed University Giessen], [https://www.fbf-forschung.de/aktuelles/methabreed-neues-forschungsprojekt-zur-reduzierung.html FBF], [https://livestock-functional-microbiology.uni-hohenheim.de/en/research-projects#jfmulticontent_c401477-2 University of Hohenheim.]

== Presentation materials ==

=== Seminar by Julius van der Werf: Breeding for a changing climate 13-05-2025 ===
On the 13th of May Julius van de Werf gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on selection indexes for selecting low methane livestock, focused on sheep. You can find the slides [[:File:20250513 Seminar J.v.d.Werf.pdf|here]]. You can find the recording of the presentation below.

<youtube>PxKmxKVvVEA?si=C6x0keKAvgU009Da</youtube>

=== Seminar by Maria Frizzarin: Introduction to milk mid-infrared spectroscopy 10-07-2025 ===
On the 10th of July Maria Frizzarin gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on milk mid-infrared spectroscopy, equations development, and applications. You can find the slides [[:File:10072025 Seminar Maria MIR.pdf|here.]]

=== Seminar by Sarah-Joe Burn: Breed4Green 25-09-2025 ===
On the 25th of September Sarah-Joe Burn gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on measuring methane emissions in commercial farms and establishing a comprehensive dataset for genetic studies. A similar presentations was given at EAAP 2025, you can find the slides to that presentation [[:File:Eaap2025-breed4green-linke.pdf|here]] and the abstract [[:File:2025 Innsbruck EAAP Book Abstracts.pdf|here]], page 250.

=== Joint ICAR Feed&Gas and ASGGN workshop ===
On the 5th of October the joint workshop between the [https://www.icar.org/group/working-group-feed-and-gas/ ICAR Feed&Gas working group] and the [https://www.asggn.org/ ASGGN] took place before the GGAA conference in Nairobi. The presentations can be found below.

[[:File:2025 ASGGN - GGAA - A Taste of the Future Buccal Swabbing for Rumen Microbial ProfilingTB.pdf|A Taste of the Future: Buccal Swabbing for Rumen Microbial Profiling]]. Presented by Ben Perry ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:2638 Booker ILRI GGAA ASGGN Oct 2025.pdf|Rate of Genetic Gain for Methane Emissions in a Maternal Production Flock]]. Presented by Fem Booker ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:Boris ICAR2025 v01.pdf|Association between rumen and faecal microbiome and enteric methane emissions in dairy cattle]]. Presented by Boris Sepulveda ([https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/ AV])

[[:File:CaeliRichardson GGAA Workshop 2025.pdf|Global Framework to Monitor, Measure, and Account for Methane Reductions from Genetic Selection]]. Presented by Caeli Richardson ([https://abacusbio.com/ Abacusbio])

[[:File:GGAA Workshop ICAR and ASGGN Ida Storm.pdf|Danish Perspectives on implementation of GHG regulation]]. Presented by Ida Storm ([https://agricultureandfood.dk/ DAFG])

[[:File:GGAA Workshop ICAR and ASGGN Rasmus Stephansen.pdf|Experience with CH4 sniffers, what have we learned so far?]] Presented by Rasmus Stephansen ([https://international.au.dk/ AU])

[[:File:GGAA workshop MIR methane presentation.pdf|Overview of the methane equations developed from mid-infrared spectroscopy and their applications.]] Presented by Maria Frizzarin ([https://www.agroscope.admin.ch/agroscope/en/home.html Agroscope])

[[:File:HanneHonerlagen ICARpresentation.pdf|Adding microbial data to enhance breeding for lower methane emissions]]. Presented by Hanne Honerlagen ([https://www.wur.nl/en/research-results/chair-groups/animal-sciences/animal-breeding-and-genomics-group.htm WUR-ABG])

[[:File:McNaughton ASGGN Workshop final.pdf|GreenFeed for phenotyping – our experiences]]. Presented by Lorna McNaughton ([https://www.lic.co.nz/ LIC])

[[:File:MIE ILRI GGAA ASGGN Oct 2025.pdf|Methane Index Explorer: Optimising a Breeding Value Format for Simultaneous Inclusion of Enteric Methane Emissions in Breeding Schemes and National Inventories]]. Presented by Pavithra Ariyarathne ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:RiccardoGGAA Presentation RB.pdf|ZELP sense]]. Presented by Riccardo Bica ([https://www.zelp.co/ ZELP])

[[:File:ICAR Working group Nairobi 5 Oct2025.pdf|Selection for lower methane livestock, selection index considerations]]. Presented by Julius van der Werf (UNE)

Measuring enteric methane in beef and dairy cattle using PAC. Presented by Timothy Bilton ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])<youtube>https://youtu.be/NjPuotrmkMQ</youtube>

Estimating methane emissions with the GreenFeed System. Presented by Paul Smith ([https://teagasc.ie/ Teagasc]) <youtube>https://youtu.be/TnHefWoP29I</youtube>

File:P-2025-1-15-2 FBF Logo MethaBreed Logo 01 4C-01.png

2026-01-07T08:10:59Z

Cvangemert:

MethaBreed logo

Section 20: Activities

2026-01-07T08:08:43Z

Cvangemert: Adjusted MethaBreed to include links to partners

<center>
<big>
NOTE: This version of Section 20 has been approved by the working group's Chair. Please be aware that further revisions may occur before final review and approval by the Board and ICAR members per the [[Approval of Page Process]].

</big>
</center>
== Global Methane Genetics ==
[[File:GMG label.png|right|frameless|300x300px]]
The Global Methane Genetics (GMG) initiative is a global program to accelerate genetic progress in methane emission in ruminants in the Global North and South. This WUR-ABG coordinated initiative is funded by the [https://www.globalmethanehub.org/ Global Methane Hub] and the [https://www.bezosearthfund.org/ Bezos Earth Fund,] both based on philanthropic funds to support methane mitigation and prevent global warming. If you have questions about the [https://www.wur.nl/en/project/global-methane-genetics-initiative.htm GMG initiative] you can send an email to gmg@wur.nl, contact Roel Veerkamp: roel.veerkamp@wur.nl or Birgit Gredler-Grandl: birgit.gredler-grandl@wur.nl.

The initiative holds the following projects:

=== '''Dairy Cattle''' ===
We can look to nature to reduce CH4 emissions and use genetic diversity to provide solutions. Genetic improvement, based on identifying animals with genetic predisposition for lower CH4 output and using them to breed for the next generations, is a reliable, cost-effective, and permanent method for transforming livestock's impact on the environment. Breeding programs in dairy cattle are run within breeds and across countries. Therefore, the program will accelerate genetic progress by focusing on four major dairy breeds and organizations and countries involved in those breeds. Additionally, the program will acquire considerable leverage through investments in these countries. If you have questions about the dairy cattle section you can contact Birgit Gredler-Grandl: birgit.gredler-grandl@wur.nl.

==== ''Holstein breed'' ====
The largest data collection has been for the Holstein breed, but there is a lack of standardization and protocols in terms of equipment and its utilization (farm level, data processing, data sharing agreements, genetic evaluations, and data collections). Governments and breeding organizations in Denmark and the Netherlands will collaborate and collect methane and genotypes on more than 20,000 Holstein cows for the GMG database. Also, Poland and Italy team up to collect data for the GMG database, and their aim is also to collect more than 20,000 Holstein animals and develop genetic evaluations across a wide range of systems.

===== Denmark-The Netherlands =====
This collaboration between Aarhus University and Wageningen Livestock Research has five main goals. The contact person for questions about this project is Trine Villumsen: tmv@qgg.au.dk.

* Setting up Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for measuring methane using sniffers
* Setting up international protocols to measure methane on commercial farms
* Develop software tools to automate the processing of data into a phenotype
* Combine historical data in both countries for genetic evaluations
* Measure enteric methane in 20.000 new cows.

===== Poland-Italy =====
This collaboration has the following main goals. The contact person for questions about this project is Raffaella Finocchiaro raffaellafinocchiaro@anafibj.it.

* Measure enteric methane in 20.000 new cows.

==== ''Jersey breed'' ====
Currently, due to the limited data available, the Jersey dairy breed does not have breeding values for methane (CH4) mitigation. The goal of the program is to collect methane genotypes in Canada and Denmark and share this information with the GMG database. The aim is to develop breeding values that will be distributed through the World Jersey Cattle Bureau organization and national Jersey organizations in Australia, Canada, Switzerland, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and New Zealand. If you have questions about the Jersey breed section you can contact Rasmus Bak Stephansen rasmus.stephansen@qgg.au.dk

==== ''Brown Swiss breed'' ====
The Brown Swiss (BS) breed faces significant challenges due to its small population size, an divers environments the animals are kept. A collaboration between Germany, Switzerland, and Austria to phenotype enough animals is a prerequisite for utilizing the genetic potential of reducing methane emission of the BS breed. In addition to a population of 250 cows recorded with Greenfeed, and 1250 with the sniffer, progress will be accelerated by recording an additional 3,360 cows with sniffers. If you have questions about the Brown Swiss breed section you can contact Elena Frenken: fe@fbf-forschung.de.

==== ''Red breeds'' ====
The red breeds are important for crossbreeding in many countries around the world. The project aims to share and collect CH4 data from Red Dairy Cattle (RDC) breeds (in the Nordic countries, Canada, and the United Kingdom (UK)) and share it with the Global Methane Genetics (GMG) Hub. Together, they will set up a shared genetic evaluation for bulls used for crossbreeding in many more countries. If you have questions about the Red breed section you can contact Elisenda Rius-Vilarrasa: Elisenda.Rius-Vilarrasa@vxa.se.

=== '''Beef Cattle''' ===

==== ''Bluegrass (global beef)'' ====
All industries world-wide have been challenged with reducing emissions and beef is no exception. Genetic selection and specifically genomic selection have been identified as key tools to help meet this challenge. Methane emissions are not a local problem, but a global one and several major beef producing countries who exchange genetic material have, are, and will be collecting methane phenotypes for the purpose of genomic prediction. Individually (including those in Australia), these datasets will be limited in their genomic prediction accuracy. The BLUEGRASS alliance will bring together the key players globally, who collectively have solicited key seed funding from the Global Methane Hub. By sharing data and resources, the development of necessary reference populations will be accelerated. Locally or globally, success in the beef genetics industry has been a model of ‘co-opetition’. Breeders, although competitors, pool resources to build tools that can be used by all to compete with one another. This BLUEGRASS alliance is no different. A global alliance will come together to address this challenge, with or without Australia. Having Australia lead and ignite the alliance with MDC co-funding will create opportunities to direct this global initiative and provide first mover advantages for Australian breeders.

The program is focused on building genomic reference datasets for the main beef breeds in the collaborating countries. The animals to be recorded will be intensively recorded for other production traits, and genotyped, outside this project itself. In each country, trial or research breeding values will be produced and delivered to industry during the life of the project – enabling genetic selection against methane to get underway, and the data will underpin the ability to genomically screen the entire populations of the breeds involved in the respective countries i.e. all seedstock and commercial animals. The data collected will likely assist development of genomic selection against methane in other countries. The accelerated genetic selection and the commercial animal screening will enable real impact to reduce methane from beef cattle. If you have questions about the bluegrass project specifically, you can contact Steve Miller, steve.miller@une.edu.au

===== Number of phenotypes =====
This project will phenotype methane traits in beef cattle populations in the US, Australia, the UK, Ireland, and New Zealand. Around 18.500 phenotypes will be collected over all years and countries. It is estimated that around 7.000 phenotypes will be collected in Australia, around 1.600 in New Zealand, around 800 in the UK, around 2.000 in Ireland and around 7.00 in the USA.
===== Breeds and traits included =====
All countries included in the Bluegrass project have different breeds and different target traits included in their measurements, besides the methane phenotypes.

Australia will focus on Angus and Hereford seedstock with a research population of Angus, Wagyu, Charolais, Shorthorn and Brahman being a target as well. For the seedstock they will focus on seedstock traits plus methane measurements using PAC measures. For the research populations on seedstock traits plus feed intake, carcass as well as methane measurements with PAC.

For New Zealand priority is the progeny test herds. These are mostly Angus, Hereford and their crosses, including a diallel cross design. Some Angus x Simmental. Complete requirements with seedstock herds of Angus and Hereford. Focus is on the following: progeny test, seedstock traits, conception date (via fetal aging) from natural mate at yearling (then re-breeding), carcass grading on steers, feed intake on heifers, rumen microbiome on steers and heifers, seedstock traits from seedstock herds

For the UK focus lies on Angus and Hereford sired animals, both pedigree and crossbred (including from dairy dams) and they focus on liveweights.

For Ireland they include multi-breed/crossbreed. 30% Charolais and Limousin sired from Continental type suckler dams, 30% Holstein-Friesian and 40% beef (mostly Angus) cross dairy. They will focus on feed intake, liveweight and carcass data.

The USA will be measuring Angus focused on seedstock traits from seedstock herds.

==== ''US beef'' ====
This project will accelerate genetic selection for reduced methane emissions from U.S. and Canadian beef cattle, through phenotyping and genotyping the 18 most influential beef breeds in North America.

The primary activities of this project will center on phenotyping and genetic evaluation of the Germplasm Evaluation (GPE) herd, a large, multibreed resource population at the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) in Nebraska, USA. This herd is structured to represent the genetic diversity of the 18 most influential beef breeds in the U.S.. These 18 breeds are: Angus, Red Angus, Hereford, South Devon, Shorthorn, Beefmaster, Brangus, Brahman, Santa Gertrudis, Braunvieh, ChiAngus, Charolais, Gelbvieh, Limousin, Maine-Anjou, Salers, Simmental, Tarentaise.

Recording of methane phenotypes will occur using multiple approaches to not only maximize the number of phenotypes collected, but to also offer a comparison between methodologies within a U.S. beef production system. Based on these findings and in coordination with other GMG project teams, standard operating procedures for methane phenotyping of beef cattle will be developed and integrated into the [https://beefimprovement.org/resource-center/bif-guidelines/ Guidelines for Uniform Beef Improvement Programs] supporting the evolution of these approaches into standard practice and routine evaluation in any beef breeding system. If you have questions about the US beef project specifically, you can contact Matthew Spangler, mspangler2@unl.edu.

===== Main goals =====
* Recording methane phenotypes from at least 5,500 multi-breed genotyped beef cattle and openly sharing to the GMG database and the public domain.
* Development and publication of uniform guidelines for both methane phenotyping in beef cattle systems and the integration of methane phenotypes into beef genetic evaluations, through the BIF Guidelines wiki.
* Dissemination and routine updating of genetic parameter and genomic marker effects critical for the development of genetic selection tools and deployment of methane-reducing breeding programs.

=== '''Sheep''' ===
This project focusses on recording methane phenotypes on animals in various populations, e.g. Merino, Texel, Dohne, Corriedale, maternal and terminal. In each case, those animals will be recorded for a range of other production, health, product quality and welfare traits (the exact suite of traits varies between countries). This ensures that it will be possible to determine the genetic relationships between methane traits and the other traits included in current and future selection indexes and breeding programs – meaning that breeders will be able to make informed decisions on any trade-offs between methane and other traits. In total around 16.600 methane phenotypes will be collected over all years and countries. It is estimated that around 7.500 methane phenotypes will be collected in Australia, 3.000 in Uruguay, 4.000 in New Zealand, 1.200 in the UK and 1.000 in the UK. If you have questions about the sheep project specifically, you can contact Daniel Brown, dbrown2@une.edu.au
==== Main goals ====
* Phenotyping and reference populations. Fast tracked phenotyping and genotyping up to 16,000 records of methane traits across the key countries to facilitate accurate international evaluation of animals (Table 2).
* Genetic evaluation and models. Breeding values based on international genomic evaluation models to share the benefits of the established reference populations.
* Proxies. Development and validation of new phenotyping methods to expedite genetic progress.
* Breeding Programs. Whole farm system models to incorporate methane into breeding objectives in a balanced way and indexes to facilitate selection of breeding candidates.
* Education and adoption. Stakeholder engagement campaign and international development to ensure world-wide impact.

=== '''Africa''' ===
This project focused on three regions of Africa (Eastern, Western and Southern Africa). It will will leverage and accelerate on-going early research on GHG in these regions, strongly build capacity and team up with researchers to record CH4, other economic productive traits and use the records to implement breeding strategies to reduce CH4 emission while simultaneously enhancing productivity, food security and employment opportunities in the dairy and beef cattle farming systems; The source of livelihood for many poorly resourced farmers.

Tapping into the existing breeding program infrastructure for improved productivity for dairy cattle in the three regions of Africa, this project will result in overall program that will accelerate genetic progress through focus on phenotyping, genotyping and the use of information from the microbiome in the genetic selection of animals in the smallholder dairy system. The overall impact will be better mitigation of negative effects of climate change and more productive cows. Through selection programs based on the index developed with the phenotypic and genomic information from this project.

The major activities include the direct CH4 measurements on about 1.655 tropical cattle using [[Greenfeed SOP|GreenFeed]] and the use of [[Laser Methane Detector|LMD]] in smallholder farmers. Genotypic information and phenotypes captured routinely on major important productive traits that influence profitability, income and livelihood of farmers on 1.619 animals. Data sets will be linked to a larger existing data on 9.000 cows with phenotypic and genotypic information from existing projects. If you have questions about the Africa project specifically, you can contact Raphael Mrode, raphael.mrode@sruc.ac.uk

==== Main goals ====

* Methane measurements available on 1.655 tropical cows.
* Tissue samples and genotypes available on 1.619 tropical cows.
* Genetic relationship between dairy cows in Western and Eastern Africa estimated.
* Multi-trait genomic analysis of dairy data and methane in Eastern Africa.
* Incorporate existing data on over 9.000 cows from existing research projects to enhance genomic prediction.
* Computation and the roll out of final selection index or sub-indexes developed for improved efficiency - reduced CH4 emission, lower maintenance requirement and increased milk production.

=== '''Latin America''' ===
The aim of this project is to accelerate the reduction of enteric methane emissions in beef cattle in Latin America through genetic selection in key breeds relevant to Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, and Mexico. The focus will be on phenotyping methane emissions and genotyping animals linked to existing genetic improvement programs. Reference populations for genomic selection will be the basis to improve the estimation of genetic merit and select for lower emission. The link with ongoing genetic improvement programs provides data on other economically relevant production traits, thus making it possible to estimate genetic correlations and optimize methane emission reductions with a minimum impact on livestock productivity. This approach minimizes negative impacts on food production while preserving economic, social, and environmental sustainability of beef cattle farming. This collaborative project between national agricultural research institutes (NARI) is supported by breeders’ associations and other key stakeholders. Public-private partnerships and collaborative efforts will scale genetic evaluation for methane emissions as well as the use of lower methane emission genetics on commercial farms. Phenotypic and genomic data from approximately 7.000 animals will be made globally available. In synergy with other projects, it will be possible to increase the size of reference populations leading to an even greater impact on methane emissions mitigation. If you have questions about the Latin America project specifically, you can contact Elly Navajas, enavajas@inia.org.uy

For developing methane emission phenotyping platforms and reference populations, it is essential to upgrade methane emission recording equipment as well as standardize and coordinate the measurement of animals. Standardized protocols will be developed in collaboration with ICAR, and the criteria for selecting animals to be measured and genotyped will be established by the research team, including technicians from breeder associations. A critical component of the project involves genetic analyses, such as estimating genetic parameters for methane emission-related traits, validating breeding values in additional populations, and evaluating the impact of selecting for reduced methane emissions. Scientific collaboration will be fostered with other beef cattle projects, focusing on areas such as expertise exchange. Communication strategies will be implemented to engage stakeholders, including breeders, artificial insemination centers, policymakers, and other private stakeholders. Dialogue with teams managing greenhouse gas (GHG) inventories and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) will also be enhanced. These activities require active collaboration among countries and stakeholders in Latin America to achieve successful outcomes.

==== Main goals ====

* A Latin American collaborative network for accelerating genetic improvement for methane emissions reduction is established by NARIs, universities, breeder societies, and private stakeholders engaged in genetic evaluation programs across South America and Mexico.
* Methane emission phenotyping platforms are implemented, enabling data collection across key beef cattle breeds, targeting 7.000 methane emission phenotypes and genotypes of animals linked to genetic evaluations.
* Genomic-enhanced estimated breeding values for methane emissions will be available to breeders: based on pure-breed and multi-breed reference populations enhanced through collaboration and data sharing across beef cattle projects within the GMG initiative.
* The economic and environmental impact of breeding strategies to reduce methane emissions is assessed, to identify the most promising breeding strategies to accelerate methane emission reduction. The development of breeding objectives combining methane emission reduction with production goals will support policy and incentives for breeders and farmers to overcome adoption barriers and integrate the results into national GHG inventories.

=== '''Microbiome''' ===
The micro-HUB project will establish a reference population with metagenome and genotype data, and create a genomic evaluation system that can be used to select the parents of the next generation with microbiome profiles that produce less enteric methane while maintaining genetic progress in profit and health. The genomic evaluation system will be widely open, will target most relevant breeds and production systems. Furthermore, a large global microbiome network will be established to collect existing data and knowledge and ensure knowledge transfer.

This project will start with metagenome and genomic data on 5.430 individuals from the core project partners, we will explore the opportunity to extend and expand our reference population to other countries with suitable data. By combining national data sets with genotypes, microbiome and methane information, we aim to create the largest rumen microbiome reference population globally. We aim to enlarge the reference population by more than 20.000 microbiome sequenced dairy and beef cattle as well as sheep from the Global Methane Genetics (GMG) program. From this, we will facilitate the delivery of genomic breeding values that can be used in global breeding programs to select for a microbiome composition with lower emissions and reduce the abundance of methanogenic pathways in the rumen microbiome of future generations of cattle and sheep. The project partners cover beef, dairy and sheep populations and creates an opportunity to identify a core microbiome (or set of cores) that can be used as a reference for nation-based breeding programs. The project will closely connect to the other projects within the Global Methane Program, to facilitate microbiome sampling, sequencing and genomic analysis. If you have questions about the microbiome project specifically, you can contact Oscar Gonzalez-Recio, oscar.gonzalezrecio@ed.ac.uk

==== Activities ====
To enlarge the national database partners will obtain additional samples from animals with methane and genotype data from different breeds and production systems within the GMG phenotyping program (dairy and beef cattle). The inclusion of samples from external partners will be encouraged. Partners (also external) will be provided with instruction to collect data and sample rumen microbiome. The micro-Hub will provide stewardship for GMG partners regarding sampling, storage and shipping, as well as bioinformatic analysis. Rumen metagenome sequencing will be centralized in as fewer labs as possible (ideally only one).

Reference populations from partners will be combined, covering a broad range of breeds and productions systems and different geographical regions. Format of the databases will be unified. The combined dataset will be used for the microbiome genomic evaluations. The reference database will be updated with additional data coming from external partners.

We will develop the capabilities to estimate the genomic breeding value for microbiome composition for any genotyped animal in similar productive conditions as those represented in our reference population. The goal is to propose recommendations based on own experience to include estimated genomic breeding values for rumen microbiome profile in breeding programs.

The project will contribute to the activities organized within Global Methane Genetics and the ICAR Feed&Gas working group in building a microbiome network to exchange knowledge, harmonize guidelines and develop protocols. All data generated within the project will be made available through the Global Methane Genetics database. The project will collaborate with the database development to develop microbiome sharing requirements and specifications.

==== Main goals ====

* Joint reference metagenome compiled.
* Microbiome genomic evaluations.
* Release of SNP coefficients for international genomic evaluations for microbiome compositions.
* Network building and establishment of platform for rumen metagenome data.

=== '''Working Group meetings''' ===

The six working groups as described above meet two times a year to discuss the progress of their projects and to share knowledge. There are also general webinars organized for the project participants throughout the years.

==== Dairy Cattle ====
On the 15th of May 2025 the Working Group Dairy cattle met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:250515 GMG meeting Dairy Working Group.pdf|here.]]

On the 27th of October 2025 the Working Group Cattle had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251027 GMG Working group Dairy meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Sheep ====
On the 20th of May 2025 the Working Sheep met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:20250520 Meeting GMG Working group sheep.pdf|here.]]

On the 11th of November 2025 the Working Group Sheep had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251111 Sheep Working Group GMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

==== Microbiome ====
On the 23th of May 2025 the Working Group Microbiome met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:202505 Global Meeting Genetics Microbiome working group meeting.pdf|here.]]

On the 27th of November 2025 the Working Group Microbiome had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251127 GMG Microbiome WG presentation.pdf|here.]]

On the 2nd of December 2025 the Working group microbiome organized a Q&A session about microbiome sampling. You can find the slides [[:File:20251202 GMG meeting MicroHub Q&A.pdf|here.]]

==== Latin America ====
On the 5th of June 2025 the Working Group Latin America met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:202506 Presentation GMG Working Group Latin America meeting.pdf|here.]]

On the 14th of November 2025 the Working Group Latin America had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251114 Latin America GMG Work group meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Africa ====
On the 23th of May 2025 the Working Group Africa met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:20250523 GMG Working group Africa meeting.pdf|here.]]

On the 7th of November 2025 the Working Group Africa had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251107 Africa Workgroup GMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

==== Beef ====
On the 17th of June 2025 the Working Group Beef met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:202506 GMG Working group Beef meeting.pdf|here.]]

On the 11th of November 2025 the Working Group Beef had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251106 GMG Working group Beef meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Asia ====
On the 1th of July 2025 the Working Group Asia met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:20250701 AsiaGMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

On the 25th of November the Working Group Asia organized a webinar for parties interested in contributing to the Asia group. You can find slides on data to impact [[:File:GMG Asia From data to impact.pdf|here]], an introduction into the GMG [[:File:Asia 20251105.pdf|here]], slides on methane recording techniques [[:File:2511 GMG Asia MethaneMethods.pdf|here]] and a presentation about [[Laser Methane Detector|LMD]] and their experiences from ILRI [[:File:ILRI LMD Exp 2025.pdf|here]].

==== Webinars ====
On the 22th of May 2025 there was a webinar for all GMG project participants on effective records in the database, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:250515 GMG meeting Dairy Working Group.pdf|here.]]

== DAFNE ==
Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences at the University of Tuscia. Their main purpose is to collect primary emissions data from sniffers and GF to have emissions factors related to the species, breed, physiological state and diet management. They are engaged with ANAFIBJ and sharing data related to Holstein cattle with them for genetic evaluations. Currently they are running trials with sheep and buffalo.

=== Sheep ===
For this trial they are comparing 2 grazing methods using 2 groups of Sopravissana sheep, reared at the facility.

# Rotational, 18 sheep. Turns every 4 days on strip paddocks. 18 paddocks in total; 6 heads on 3 strip paddocks per turn of grazing. After 24 days the sheep are back to the first three strips.
# Continuous, 18 sheep. Continuous grazing on same paddock. 3 paddocks in total; 6 heads per paddock.

Subgroups for both group A and B (6 heads) are randomly arranged every day. The 18 strip paddocks are the same total size as the three continuous paddocks. They have the same number of heads grazing and the same live weight load.

Both groups are balanced for BW, receive the same hay in quantity and quality with ad libitum access and spend the same time at pasture. Daily sampling of the hay and residual per group is done, weekly sub samples of hay and residual are analyzed. In parallel fresh grass is sampled and analyzed to represent the 2 grazing methods.

The GreenFeed is located in the barn, at 9AM this barn is closed for group A and opens for group B and this switches every day. The GreenFeed is the only place they can get concentrates. Nutritional information for this concentrate can be found [[:File:Nutritional table sheep DAFHNE.docx|here]]. Amount of food and cup drops can be found here.

Trial started end of March 2025 and will last 1.5 months. They are using the GF adapted for small ruminants.

=== Buffalo ===
This is a continuous trial which will last 4 months per supplement tested. First they monitor the buffalo for 4 weeks without supplement as a control diet and then there will be an 8 week experimental period with the supplement diet. During the entire period the buffalo are confined to the barn.

The buffalo are separated in two groups, in adjacent pens. One group has access to a milking robot, with the MooLogger from [[Sniffer SOP|Tecnosens.]] The other pen has a conventional milking system and the GreenFeed is placed facing this pen.

All buffaloes are fed the same concentrates. Nutritional information for this concentrate can be found [[:File:Nutritional table Buffalo DAFHNE.docx|here]]. Amount of food and cup drops can be found here. The buffalo’s in the GF group get the concentrates from the GF and about 1 kg of concentrates during milking operations. The buffalo’s in the sniffer group only get concentrates from the milking robot, which is about 2 kg/head/day.

To account for the emissions recorded individually at different times, they compare the emissions data aggregated on a daily basis. They are using the GF adapted for large ruminants with horns

== MethaBreed ==
The MethaBreed project aims to improve the sustainability of dairy production by developing innovative breeding strategies for dairy cows that simultaneously reduce methane emissions, enhance feed efficiency, and support animal health. A large-scale longitudinal study is being conducted in commercial dairy herds. Using advanced technologies, individual cow traits are recorded across entire lactations and multiple lactation cycles. Data collection includes continuous monitoring of methane emissions using sniffers, feed intake (using CFIT: Cattle Feed Intake System), body weight (using CFIT and scales), and key health parameters. A particular focus lies on the role of the rumen microbiome in methane production. A central goal of MethaBreed is the development of a new breeding value for methane emissions, enabling the selection of animals with lower environmental impact. These data will be integrated with pedigree and genomic information to allow precise breeding decisions. At the same time, the existing breeding value for feed efficiency will be further refined. The outcomes of the project are expected to make a significant contribution towards more climate-friendly dairy production. In the long term, standardized breeding values will be provided, enabling breeding organizations and farmers to actively select for healthier, more efficient, and more sustainable dairy cows. For more information you can visit the following websites from the partners: [https://www.uni-giessen.de/de/fbz/fb09/institute/ith/ag-koenig/forschung/laufend/methabreed University Giessen], [https://www.fbf-forschung.de/aktuelles/methabreed-neues-forschungsprojekt-zur-reduzierung.html FBF], [https://livestock-functional-microbiology.uni-hohenheim.de/en/research-projects#jfmulticontent_c401477-2 University of Hohenheim.]

== Presentation materials ==

=== Seminar by Julius van der Werf: Breeding for a changing climate 13-05-2025 ===
On the 13th of May Julius van de Werf gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on selection indexes for selecting low methane livestock, focused on sheep. You can find the slides [[:File:20250513 Seminar J.v.d.Werf.pdf|here]]. You can find the recording of the presentation below.

<youtube>PxKmxKVvVEA?si=C6x0keKAvgU009Da</youtube>

=== Seminar by Maria Frizzarin: Introduction to milk mid-infrared spectroscopy 10-07-2025 ===
On the 10th of July Maria Frizzarin gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on milk mid-infrared spectroscopy, equations development, and applications. You can find the slides [[:File:10072025 Seminar Maria MIR.pdf|here.]]

=== Seminar by Sarah-Joe Burn: Breed4Green 25-09-2025 ===
On the 25th of September Sarah-Joe Burn gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on measuring methane emissions in commercial farms and establishing a comprehensive dataset for genetic studies. A similar presentations was given at EAAP 2025, you can find the slides to that presentation [[:File:Eaap2025-breed4green-linke.pdf|here]] and the abstract [[:File:2025 Innsbruck EAAP Book Abstracts.pdf|here]], page 250.

=== Joint ICAR Feed&Gas and ASGGN workshop ===
On the 5th of October the joint workshop between the [https://www.icar.org/group/working-group-feed-and-gas/ ICAR Feed&Gas working group] and the [https://www.asggn.org/ ASGGN] took place before the GGAA conference in Nairobi. The presentations can be found below.

[[:File:2025 ASGGN - GGAA - A Taste of the Future Buccal Swabbing for Rumen Microbial ProfilingTB.pdf|A Taste of the Future: Buccal Swabbing for Rumen Microbial Profiling]]. Presented by Ben Perry ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:2638 Booker ILRI GGAA ASGGN Oct 2025.pdf|Rate of Genetic Gain for Methane Emissions in a Maternal Production Flock]]. Presented by Fem Booker ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:Boris ICAR2025 v01.pdf|Association between rumen and faecal microbiome and enteric methane emissions in dairy cattle]]. Presented by Boris Sepulveda ([https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/ AV])

[[:File:CaeliRichardson GGAA Workshop 2025.pdf|Global Framework to Monitor, Measure, and Account for Methane Reductions from Genetic Selection]]. Presented by Caeli Richardson ([https://abacusbio.com/ Abacusbio])

[[:File:GGAA Workshop ICAR and ASGGN Ida Storm.pdf|Danish Perspectives on implementation of GHG regulation]]. Presented by Ida Storm ([https://agricultureandfood.dk/ DAFG])

[[:File:GGAA Workshop ICAR and ASGGN Rasmus Stephansen.pdf|Experience with CH4 sniffers, what have we learned so far?]] Presented by Rasmus Stephansen ([https://international.au.dk/ AU])

[[:File:GGAA workshop MIR methane presentation.pdf|Overview of the methane equations developed from mid-infrared spectroscopy and their applications.]] Presented by Maria Frizzarin ([https://www.agroscope.admin.ch/agroscope/en/home.html Agroscope])

[[:File:HanneHonerlagen ICARpresentation.pdf|Adding microbial data to enhance breeding for lower methane emissions]]. Presented by Hanne Honerlagen ([https://www.wur.nl/en/research-results/chair-groups/animal-sciences/animal-breeding-and-genomics-group.htm WUR-ABG])

[[:File:McNaughton ASGGN Workshop final.pdf|GreenFeed for phenotyping – our experiences]]. Presented by Lorna McNaughton ([https://www.lic.co.nz/ LIC])

[[:File:MIE ILRI GGAA ASGGN Oct 2025.pdf|Methane Index Explorer: Optimising a Breeding Value Format for Simultaneous Inclusion of Enteric Methane Emissions in Breeding Schemes and National Inventories]]. Presented by Pavithra Ariyarathne ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:RiccardoGGAA Presentation RB.pdf|ZELP sense]]. Presented by Riccardo Bica ([https://www.zelp.co/ ZELP])

[[:File:ICAR Working group Nairobi 5 Oct2025.pdf|Selection for lower methane livestock, selection index considerations]]. Presented by Julius van der Werf (UNE)

Measuring enteric methane in beef and dairy cattle using PAC. Presented by Timothy Bilton ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])<youtube>https://youtu.be/NjPuotrmkMQ</youtube>

Estimating methane emissions with the GreenFeed System. Presented by Paul Smith ([https://teagasc.ie/ Teagasc]) <youtube>https://youtu.be/TnHefWoP29I</youtube>

Section 20: ICAR validation methane recording devices

2026-01-07T07:06:54Z

Cvangemert: added info on webinar new icar validation service for sniffers

== Introduction ==
[https://www.icar.org/icar-validated-sensor-systems/ ICAR validation] ensures that a device (e.g. methane recording devices) meets manufacturer performance claims through ICAR-approved test plans conducted by a qualified ICAR Test Center. Successful validation confirms that the system can reliably deliver quality data when used correctly, leading to the award of an '''ICAR Certificate of Validation'''.

A webinar on the scope of this service was held 10 and 11 December 2025. You can find more information and the recording [https://www.icar.org/webinar/webinar-on-icar-new-service-validation-of-methane-sniffers-10-and-11-dec-2025/ here].

== Procedure with application for ICAR validation of methane [[Sniffer SOP|sniffer]] and its claims ==
[[Section 11 – Testing, Approval and Checking of Measuring, Recording and Sampling Devices#Part 11C – Testing of Sensor Systems for ICAR Validation|The procedure for validation]] (Figure 1) starts with a request or claim by an applicant, which can be a manufacturer, another stakeholder or a combination of these, to the ICAR Secretariat. The applicant should apply through the application form available [https://my.icar.org/applications-for-icar-validation/edit/ here] or through the ICAR Secretariat and ICAR website. A complete application includes:

* General features of the applicant (name, addresses, physical location, contact person), to be provided filling an ICAR application form;
* Information on outsourced processes used by the applicant that are relevant for the evaluation;
* Sniffer name and type, additional ‘brand and type’ names;
* Purpose and measurement parameters;
* Where and how to be applied (laboratory, on-farm at-line, on-farm in-line);
* Mounting position or use;
* Specie(s) - i.e. cow, buffalo, sheep, goat, other;
* Peer reviewed publications;
* Reports of validation studies;
* Claim(s) to be validated ;
* Test type required (new device, testing a modification);
* Technical characteristics, drawings and photographs of device;
* Technical manual outlining functional processes and principles as well as software/firmware documentation.
* Installation procedure;
* User manual, including instructions on proper maintenance;
* Routine test or periodic check procedures for operators and service technicians.

Following the payment of a first part of the application fee by the applicant, the following steps will be taken:

* ICAR Secretariat will check the application form and related documentation.
* ICAR will recruit and appoint experts to form an ICAR Expert Panel. This Expert Panel reviews the application with the request/claim.
* ICAR, on recommendation of the ICAR Expert Panel will appoint an ICAR Test Centre to conduct the tests.
* The ICAR Expert Panel will formulate a test plan in consultation with the applicant and the ICAR appointed Test Centre.
* ICAR issues an umbrella contract and sends it to the applicant together with the test plan and the invoice for the full test fees.
* The ICAR test will be scheduled and conducted after the contract is signed and the test fees are paid in full. The ICAR Secretariat coordinates financial transactions between the applicant, the ICAR appointed Test Centre, and ICAR.
* For the test to begin, the applicant must send all the necessary devices and accessories to the ICAR appointed Test Centre. In addition, all manuals, documents, and procedures should be provided to the ICAR appointed Test Centre.
* Then the ICAR appointed Test Centre will conduct the tests. The ICAR appointed Test Centre is obliged to act according to the procedures laid down in the test plan and accompanying protocols. All details associated with the testing phase, including the test results, are kept strictly confidential. The ICAR appointed Test Centre provides periodic reports on tests in progress to the concerned ICAR Expert Panel.
* Upon completion of the test, the ICAR appointed Test Centre provides a draft report on the test results to the concerned ICAR Expert Panel through the ICAR Secretariat.
* After a 21-day review and comment period by the ICAR Expert Panel, the ICAR appointed Test Centre addresses any possible comments, prepares a final report and resubmits it to the ICAR Expert Panel through the ICAR Secretariat within 21 days of the receipt of the comments.
* After another 21-day review period, the ICAR Expert Panel provides its recommendation on validation output to ICAR Certification with a notification to the applicant.
* In case of a successful test for validation, ICAR will grant an ICAR certificate of validation to the applicant.
* All ICAR-validated claims are published on the ICAR website, including pictures of the device, year of validation, species and information on the certified claim.

[[File:Flowchart for ICAR validation.png|980x980px|Figure 1. Flowchart for ICAR validation|alt=Figure 1. Flowchart for ICAR validation|center|thumb]]

== Testing procedure methane sniffers ==
The testing procedure consists of two stages: Firstly, the sniffer will be tested in the Air Quality Lab of [https://www.wur.nl/en.htm Wageningen University and Research] (Droevendaalsesteeg 3a, 6708 PB Wageningen, the Netherlands) and after the sniffer producing company and Wageningen University and Research agree on continuing the test procedure, the sniffer will be tested on farm at the innovation and research center [https://www.dairycampus.nl/nl/home.htm DairyCampus]; the official ICAR Test Centre (Boksumerdyk 11, 8912 CA Leeuwarden, the Netherlands).

=== Test in Air Quality Lab of Wageningen University and Research ===
At the Air Quality Lab known concentrations of CH4 and, if applicable, CO2 will be offered to the sniffers to validate the output of the sniffers. The offered CH4 concentrations are within a range of 100 ppm to 2,000 ppm and, if applicable, for CO2 within a range of 1,000 ppm to 10,000 ppm. The test procedure stipulates to start with the lowest concentration going to the highest concentration and back to also capture the capability of the sniffer to record sinking gas concentrations. At the lab, moisture sensitivity will also be tested for the sniffers. Here a known CH4 gas concentration is offered, and the level of relative humidity is increased in 5 steps from 0 ‘dry’ gas to 90-95%, which is the maximum amount. The recorded measures, the response time of the sniffer, the repeatability and the effect of moisture in the lab test will be documented and analyzed.

=== On farm test on DairyCampus ===
Field testing of the sniffers will be conducted on the DairyCampus farm. The barn in which the test will be conducted has a milking robot (DeLaval) as well as a [[Greenfeed SOP|GreenFeed unit]] (c-Lock Inc.) measuring the gas fluxes of CH4 and CO2. The sniffer will be installed for 3 months continuously at the milking robot. The repeatability of repeated measurements on the same cow on the same day, as well as the correlation with GreenFeed measurements on the same cow on the same day will be calculated and missing measurements will be documented. The ranking of the animals from low to high emitters will be compared.

Further, once per month the [[:File:Determination of carbon dioxide concentrations in-wageningen university and research LUNG METHOD.pdf|lung method]] will be applied to validate the output from the sniffers in the field. This is done by placing two gas collection bins next to the milking robot and collecting air samples from the same tube as the sniffers. We will collect samples at three different time points during the day. Each sample collected will be from an approximately 2-hour time period, in duplo (duplicate of air sampling at the same time). This collected gas will then be sent to the air-quality lab to be analyzed with gas chromatography (GC) to determine the concentrations of CH4 and CO2 in each bag. The results from this GC analysis will be compared to the average gas measurements from the sniffers over the same time period.

Section 20: Activities

2026-01-07T06:57:44Z

Cvangemert: Added Methabreed project

<center>
<big>
NOTE: This version of Section 20 has been approved by the working group's Chair. Please be aware that further revisions may occur before final review and approval by the Board and ICAR members per the [[Approval of Page Process]].

</big>
</center>
== Global Methane Genetics ==
[[File:GMG label.png|right|frameless|300x300px]]
The Global Methane Genetics (GMG) initiative is a global program to accelerate genetic progress in methane emission in ruminants in the Global North and South. This WUR-ABG coordinated initiative is funded by the [https://www.globalmethanehub.org/ Global Methane Hub] and the [https://www.bezosearthfund.org/ Bezos Earth Fund,] both based on philanthropic funds to support methane mitigation and prevent global warming. If you have questions about the [https://www.wur.nl/en/project/global-methane-genetics-initiative.htm GMG initiative] you can send an email to gmg@wur.nl, contact Roel Veerkamp: roel.veerkamp@wur.nl or Birgit Gredler-Grandl: birgit.gredler-grandl@wur.nl.

The initiative holds the following projects:

=== '''Dairy Cattle''' ===
We can look to nature to reduce CH4 emissions and use genetic diversity to provide solutions. Genetic improvement, based on identifying animals with genetic predisposition for lower CH4 output and using them to breed for the next generations, is a reliable, cost-effective, and permanent method for transforming livestock's impact on the environment. Breeding programs in dairy cattle are run within breeds and across countries. Therefore, the program will accelerate genetic progress by focusing on four major dairy breeds and organizations and countries involved in those breeds. Additionally, the program will acquire considerable leverage through investments in these countries. If you have questions about the dairy cattle section you can contact Birgit Gredler-Grandl: birgit.gredler-grandl@wur.nl.

==== ''Holstein breed'' ====
The largest data collection has been for the Holstein breed, but there is a lack of standardization and protocols in terms of equipment and its utilization (farm level, data processing, data sharing agreements, genetic evaluations, and data collections). Governments and breeding organizations in Denmark and the Netherlands will collaborate and collect methane and genotypes on more than 20,000 Holstein cows for the GMG database. Also, Poland and Italy team up to collect data for the GMG database, and their aim is also to collect more than 20,000 Holstein animals and develop genetic evaluations across a wide range of systems.

===== Denmark-The Netherlands =====
This collaboration between Aarhus University and Wageningen Livestock Research has five main goals. The contact person for questions about this project is Trine Villumsen: tmv@qgg.au.dk.

* Setting up Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for measuring methane using sniffers
* Setting up international protocols to measure methane on commercial farms
* Develop software tools to automate the processing of data into a phenotype
* Combine historical data in both countries for genetic evaluations
* Measure enteric methane in 20.000 new cows.

===== Poland-Italy =====
This collaboration has the following main goals. The contact person for questions about this project is Raffaella Finocchiaro raffaellafinocchiaro@anafibj.it.

* Measure enteric methane in 20.000 new cows.

==== ''Jersey breed'' ====
Currently, due to the limited data available, the Jersey dairy breed does not have breeding values for methane (CH4) mitigation. The goal of the program is to collect methane genotypes in Canada and Denmark and share this information with the GMG database. The aim is to develop breeding values that will be distributed through the World Jersey Cattle Bureau organization and national Jersey organizations in Australia, Canada, Switzerland, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and New Zealand. If you have questions about the Jersey breed section you can contact Rasmus Bak Stephansen rasmus.stephansen@qgg.au.dk

==== ''Brown Swiss breed'' ====
The Brown Swiss (BS) breed faces significant challenges due to its small population size, an divers environments the animals are kept. A collaboration between Germany, Switzerland, and Austria to phenotype enough animals is a prerequisite for utilizing the genetic potential of reducing methane emission of the BS breed. In addition to a population of 250 cows recorded with Greenfeed, and 1250 with the sniffer, progress will be accelerated by recording an additional 3,360 cows with sniffers. If you have questions about the Brown Swiss breed section you can contact Elena Frenken: fe@fbf-forschung.de.

==== ''Red breeds'' ====
The red breeds are important for crossbreeding in many countries around the world. The project aims to share and collect CH4 data from Red Dairy Cattle (RDC) breeds (in the Nordic countries, Canada, and the United Kingdom (UK)) and share it with the Global Methane Genetics (GMG) Hub. Together, they will set up a shared genetic evaluation for bulls used for crossbreeding in many more countries. If you have questions about the Red breed section you can contact Elisenda Rius-Vilarrasa: Elisenda.Rius-Vilarrasa@vxa.se.

=== '''Beef Cattle''' ===

==== ''Bluegrass (global beef)'' ====
All industries world-wide have been challenged with reducing emissions and beef is no exception. Genetic selection and specifically genomic selection have been identified as key tools to help meet this challenge. Methane emissions are not a local problem, but a global one and several major beef producing countries who exchange genetic material have, are, and will be collecting methane phenotypes for the purpose of genomic prediction. Individually (including those in Australia), these datasets will be limited in their genomic prediction accuracy. The BLUEGRASS alliance will bring together the key players globally, who collectively have solicited key seed funding from the Global Methane Hub. By sharing data and resources, the development of necessary reference populations will be accelerated. Locally or globally, success in the beef genetics industry has been a model of ‘co-opetition’. Breeders, although competitors, pool resources to build tools that can be used by all to compete with one another. This BLUEGRASS alliance is no different. A global alliance will come together to address this challenge, with or without Australia. Having Australia lead and ignite the alliance with MDC co-funding will create opportunities to direct this global initiative and provide first mover advantages for Australian breeders.

The program is focused on building genomic reference datasets for the main beef breeds in the collaborating countries. The animals to be recorded will be intensively recorded for other production traits, and genotyped, outside this project itself. In each country, trial or research breeding values will be produced and delivered to industry during the life of the project – enabling genetic selection against methane to get underway, and the data will underpin the ability to genomically screen the entire populations of the breeds involved in the respective countries i.e. all seedstock and commercial animals. The data collected will likely assist development of genomic selection against methane in other countries. The accelerated genetic selection and the commercial animal screening will enable real impact to reduce methane from beef cattle. If you have questions about the bluegrass project specifically, you can contact Steve Miller, steve.miller@une.edu.au

===== Number of phenotypes =====
This project will phenotype methane traits in beef cattle populations in the US, Australia, the UK, Ireland, and New Zealand. Around 18.500 phenotypes will be collected over all years and countries. It is estimated that around 7.000 phenotypes will be collected in Australia, around 1.600 in New Zealand, around 800 in the UK, around 2.000 in Ireland and around 7.00 in the USA.
===== Breeds and traits included =====
All countries included in the Bluegrass project have different breeds and different target traits included in their measurements, besides the methane phenotypes.

Australia will focus on Angus and Hereford seedstock with a research population of Angus, Wagyu, Charolais, Shorthorn and Brahman being a target as well. For the seedstock they will focus on seedstock traits plus methane measurements using PAC measures. For the research populations on seedstock traits plus feed intake, carcass as well as methane measurements with PAC.

For New Zealand priority is the progeny test herds. These are mostly Angus, Hereford and their crosses, including a diallel cross design. Some Angus x Simmental. Complete requirements with seedstock herds of Angus and Hereford. Focus is on the following: progeny test, seedstock traits, conception date (via fetal aging) from natural mate at yearling (then re-breeding), carcass grading on steers, feed intake on heifers, rumen microbiome on steers and heifers, seedstock traits from seedstock herds

For the UK focus lies on Angus and Hereford sired animals, both pedigree and crossbred (including from dairy dams) and they focus on liveweights.

For Ireland they include multi-breed/crossbreed. 30% Charolais and Limousin sired from Continental type suckler dams, 30% Holstein-Friesian and 40% beef (mostly Angus) cross dairy. They will focus on feed intake, liveweight and carcass data.

The USA will be measuring Angus focused on seedstock traits from seedstock herds.

==== ''US beef'' ====
This project will accelerate genetic selection for reduced methane emissions from U.S. and Canadian beef cattle, through phenotyping and genotyping the 18 most influential beef breeds in North America.

The primary activities of this project will center on phenotyping and genetic evaluation of the Germplasm Evaluation (GPE) herd, a large, multibreed resource population at the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) in Nebraska, USA. This herd is structured to represent the genetic diversity of the 18 most influential beef breeds in the U.S.. These 18 breeds are: Angus, Red Angus, Hereford, South Devon, Shorthorn, Beefmaster, Brangus, Brahman, Santa Gertrudis, Braunvieh, ChiAngus, Charolais, Gelbvieh, Limousin, Maine-Anjou, Salers, Simmental, Tarentaise.

Recording of methane phenotypes will occur using multiple approaches to not only maximize the number of phenotypes collected, but to also offer a comparison between methodologies within a U.S. beef production system. Based on these findings and in coordination with other GMG project teams, standard operating procedures for methane phenotyping of beef cattle will be developed and integrated into the [https://beefimprovement.org/resource-center/bif-guidelines/ Guidelines for Uniform Beef Improvement Programs] supporting the evolution of these approaches into standard practice and routine evaluation in any beef breeding system. If you have questions about the US beef project specifically, you can contact Matthew Spangler, mspangler2@unl.edu.

===== Main goals =====
* Recording methane phenotypes from at least 5,500 multi-breed genotyped beef cattle and openly sharing to the GMG database and the public domain.
* Development and publication of uniform guidelines for both methane phenotyping in beef cattle systems and the integration of methane phenotypes into beef genetic evaluations, through the BIF Guidelines wiki.
* Dissemination and routine updating of genetic parameter and genomic marker effects critical for the development of genetic selection tools and deployment of methane-reducing breeding programs.

=== '''Sheep''' ===
This project focusses on recording methane phenotypes on animals in various populations, e.g. Merino, Texel, Dohne, Corriedale, maternal and terminal. In each case, those animals will be recorded for a range of other production, health, product quality and welfare traits (the exact suite of traits varies between countries). This ensures that it will be possible to determine the genetic relationships between methane traits and the other traits included in current and future selection indexes and breeding programs – meaning that breeders will be able to make informed decisions on any trade-offs between methane and other traits. In total around 16.600 methane phenotypes will be collected over all years and countries. It is estimated that around 7.500 methane phenotypes will be collected in Australia, 3.000 in Uruguay, 4.000 in New Zealand, 1.200 in the UK and 1.000 in the UK. If you have questions about the sheep project specifically, you can contact Daniel Brown, dbrown2@une.edu.au
==== Main goals ====
* Phenotyping and reference populations. Fast tracked phenotyping and genotyping up to 16,000 records of methane traits across the key countries to facilitate accurate international evaluation of animals (Table 2).
* Genetic evaluation and models. Breeding values based on international genomic evaluation models to share the benefits of the established reference populations.
* Proxies. Development and validation of new phenotyping methods to expedite genetic progress.
* Breeding Programs. Whole farm system models to incorporate methane into breeding objectives in a balanced way and indexes to facilitate selection of breeding candidates.
* Education and adoption. Stakeholder engagement campaign and international development to ensure world-wide impact.

=== '''Africa''' ===
This project focused on three regions of Africa (Eastern, Western and Southern Africa). It will will leverage and accelerate on-going early research on GHG in these regions, strongly build capacity and team up with researchers to record CH4, other economic productive traits and use the records to implement breeding strategies to reduce CH4 emission while simultaneously enhancing productivity, food security and employment opportunities in the dairy and beef cattle farming systems; The source of livelihood for many poorly resourced farmers.

Tapping into the existing breeding program infrastructure for improved productivity for dairy cattle in the three regions of Africa, this project will result in overall program that will accelerate genetic progress through focus on phenotyping, genotyping and the use of information from the microbiome in the genetic selection of animals in the smallholder dairy system. The overall impact will be better mitigation of negative effects of climate change and more productive cows. Through selection programs based on the index developed with the phenotypic and genomic information from this project.

The major activities include the direct CH4 measurements on about 1.655 tropical cattle using [[Greenfeed SOP|GreenFeed]] and the use of [[Laser Methane Detector|LMD]] in smallholder farmers. Genotypic information and phenotypes captured routinely on major important productive traits that influence profitability, income and livelihood of farmers on 1.619 animals. Data sets will be linked to a larger existing data on 9.000 cows with phenotypic and genotypic information from existing projects. If you have questions about the Africa project specifically, you can contact Raphael Mrode, raphael.mrode@sruc.ac.uk

==== Main goals ====

* Methane measurements available on 1.655 tropical cows.
* Tissue samples and genotypes available on 1.619 tropical cows.
* Genetic relationship between dairy cows in Western and Eastern Africa estimated.
* Multi-trait genomic analysis of dairy data and methane in Eastern Africa.
* Incorporate existing data on over 9.000 cows from existing research projects to enhance genomic prediction.
* Computation and the roll out of final selection index or sub-indexes developed for improved efficiency - reduced CH4 emission, lower maintenance requirement and increased milk production.

=== '''Latin America''' ===
The aim of this project is to accelerate the reduction of enteric methane emissions in beef cattle in Latin America through genetic selection in key breeds relevant to Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, and Mexico. The focus will be on phenotyping methane emissions and genotyping animals linked to existing genetic improvement programs. Reference populations for genomic selection will be the basis to improve the estimation of genetic merit and select for lower emission. The link with ongoing genetic improvement programs provides data on other economically relevant production traits, thus making it possible to estimate genetic correlations and optimize methane emission reductions with a minimum impact on livestock productivity. This approach minimizes negative impacts on food production while preserving economic, social, and environmental sustainability of beef cattle farming. This collaborative project between national agricultural research institutes (NARI) is supported by breeders’ associations and other key stakeholders. Public-private partnerships and collaborative efforts will scale genetic evaluation for methane emissions as well as the use of lower methane emission genetics on commercial farms. Phenotypic and genomic data from approximately 7.000 animals will be made globally available. In synergy with other projects, it will be possible to increase the size of reference populations leading to an even greater impact on methane emissions mitigation. If you have questions about the Latin America project specifically, you can contact Elly Navajas, enavajas@inia.org.uy

For developing methane emission phenotyping platforms and reference populations, it is essential to upgrade methane emission recording equipment as well as standardize and coordinate the measurement of animals. Standardized protocols will be developed in collaboration with ICAR, and the criteria for selecting animals to be measured and genotyped will be established by the research team, including technicians from breeder associations. A critical component of the project involves genetic analyses, such as estimating genetic parameters for methane emission-related traits, validating breeding values in additional populations, and evaluating the impact of selecting for reduced methane emissions. Scientific collaboration will be fostered with other beef cattle projects, focusing on areas such as expertise exchange. Communication strategies will be implemented to engage stakeholders, including breeders, artificial insemination centers, policymakers, and other private stakeholders. Dialogue with teams managing greenhouse gas (GHG) inventories and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) will also be enhanced. These activities require active collaboration among countries and stakeholders in Latin America to achieve successful outcomes.

==== Main goals ====

* A Latin American collaborative network for accelerating genetic improvement for methane emissions reduction is established by NARIs, universities, breeder societies, and private stakeholders engaged in genetic evaluation programs across South America and Mexico.
* Methane emission phenotyping platforms are implemented, enabling data collection across key beef cattle breeds, targeting 7.000 methane emission phenotypes and genotypes of animals linked to genetic evaluations.
* Genomic-enhanced estimated breeding values for methane emissions will be available to breeders: based on pure-breed and multi-breed reference populations enhanced through collaboration and data sharing across beef cattle projects within the GMG initiative.
* The economic and environmental impact of breeding strategies to reduce methane emissions is assessed, to identify the most promising breeding strategies to accelerate methane emission reduction. The development of breeding objectives combining methane emission reduction with production goals will support policy and incentives for breeders and farmers to overcome adoption barriers and integrate the results into national GHG inventories.

=== '''Microbiome''' ===
The micro-HUB project will establish a reference population with metagenome and genotype data, and create a genomic evaluation system that can be used to select the parents of the next generation with microbiome profiles that produce less enteric methane while maintaining genetic progress in profit and health. The genomic evaluation system will be widely open, will target most relevant breeds and production systems. Furthermore, a large global microbiome network will be established to collect existing data and knowledge and ensure knowledge transfer.

This project will start with metagenome and genomic data on 5.430 individuals from the core project partners, we will explore the opportunity to extend and expand our reference population to other countries with suitable data. By combining national data sets with genotypes, microbiome and methane information, we aim to create the largest rumen microbiome reference population globally. We aim to enlarge the reference population by more than 20.000 microbiome sequenced dairy and beef cattle as well as sheep from the Global Methane Genetics (GMG) program. From this, we will facilitate the delivery of genomic breeding values that can be used in global breeding programs to select for a microbiome composition with lower emissions and reduce the abundance of methanogenic pathways in the rumen microbiome of future generations of cattle and sheep. The project partners cover beef, dairy and sheep populations and creates an opportunity to identify a core microbiome (or set of cores) that can be used as a reference for nation-based breeding programs. The project will closely connect to the other projects within the Global Methane Program, to facilitate microbiome sampling, sequencing and genomic analysis. If you have questions about the microbiome project specifically, you can contact Oscar Gonzalez-Recio, oscar.gonzalezrecio@ed.ac.uk

==== Activities ====
To enlarge the national database partners will obtain additional samples from animals with methane and genotype data from different breeds and production systems within the GMG phenotyping program (dairy and beef cattle). The inclusion of samples from external partners will be encouraged. Partners (also external) will be provided with instruction to collect data and sample rumen microbiome. The micro-Hub will provide stewardship for GMG partners regarding sampling, storage and shipping, as well as bioinformatic analysis. Rumen metagenome sequencing will be centralized in as fewer labs as possible (ideally only one).

Reference populations from partners will be combined, covering a broad range of breeds and productions systems and different geographical regions. Format of the databases will be unified. The combined dataset will be used for the microbiome genomic evaluations. The reference database will be updated with additional data coming from external partners.

We will develop the capabilities to estimate the genomic breeding value for microbiome composition for any genotyped animal in similar productive conditions as those represented in our reference population. The goal is to propose recommendations based on own experience to include estimated genomic breeding values for rumen microbiome profile in breeding programs.

The project will contribute to the activities organized within Global Methane Genetics and the ICAR Feed&Gas working group in building a microbiome network to exchange knowledge, harmonize guidelines and develop protocols. All data generated within the project will be made available through the Global Methane Genetics database. The project will collaborate with the database development to develop microbiome sharing requirements and specifications.

==== Main goals ====

* Joint reference metagenome compiled.
* Microbiome genomic evaluations.
* Release of SNP coefficients for international genomic evaluations for microbiome compositions.
* Network building and establishment of platform for rumen metagenome data.

=== '''Working Group meetings''' ===

The six working groups as described above meet two times a year to discuss the progress of their projects and to share knowledge. There are also general webinars organized for the project participants throughout the years.

==== Dairy Cattle ====
On the 15th of May 2025 the Working Group Dairy cattle met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:250515 GMG meeting Dairy Working Group.pdf|here.]]

On the 27th of October 2025 the Working Group Cattle had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251027 GMG Working group Dairy meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Sheep ====
On the 20th of May 2025 the Working Sheep met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:20250520 Meeting GMG Working group sheep.pdf|here.]]

On the 11th of November 2025 the Working Group Sheep had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251111 Sheep Working Group GMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

==== Microbiome ====
On the 23th of May 2025 the Working Group Microbiome met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:202505 Global Meeting Genetics Microbiome working group meeting.pdf|here.]]

On the 27th of November 2025 the Working Group Microbiome had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251127 GMG Microbiome WG presentation.pdf|here.]]

On the 2nd of December 2025 the Working group microbiome organized a Q&A session about microbiome sampling. You can find the slides [[:File:20251202 GMG meeting MicroHub Q&A.pdf|here.]]

==== Latin America ====
On the 5th of June 2025 the Working Group Latin America met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:202506 Presentation GMG Working Group Latin America meeting.pdf|here.]]

On the 14th of November 2025 the Working Group Latin America had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251114 Latin America GMG Work group meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Africa ====
On the 23th of May 2025 the Working Group Africa met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:20250523 GMG Working group Africa meeting.pdf|here.]]

On the 7th of November 2025 the Working Group Africa had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251107 Africa Workgroup GMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

==== Beef ====
On the 17th of June 2025 the Working Group Beef met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:202506 GMG Working group Beef meeting.pdf|here.]]

On the 11th of November 2025 the Working Group Beef had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251106 GMG Working group Beef meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Asia ====
On the 1th of July 2025 the Working Group Asia met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:20250701 AsiaGMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

On the 25th of November the Working Group Asia organized a webinar for parties interested in contributing to the Asia group. You can find slides on data to impact [[:File:GMG Asia From data to impact.pdf|here]], an introduction into the GMG [[:File:Asia 20251105.pdf|here]], slides on methane recording techniques [[:File:2511 GMG Asia MethaneMethods.pdf|here]] and a presentation about [[Laser Methane Detector|LMD]] and their experiences from ILRI [[:File:ILRI LMD Exp 2025.pdf|here]].

==== Webinars ====
On the 22th of May 2025 there was a webinar for all GMG project participants on effective records in the database, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:250515 GMG meeting Dairy Working Group.pdf|here.]]

== DAFNE ==
Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences at the University of Tuscia. Their main purpose is to collect primary emissions data from sniffers and GF to have emissions factors related to the species, breed, physiological state and diet management. They are engaged with ANAFIBJ and sharing data related to Holstein cattle with them for genetic evaluations. Currently they are running trials with sheep and buffalo.

=== Sheep ===
For this trial they are comparing 2 grazing methods using 2 groups of Sopravissana sheep, reared at the facility.

# Rotational, 18 sheep. Turns every 4 days on strip paddocks. 18 paddocks in total; 6 heads on 3 strip paddocks per turn of grazing. After 24 days the sheep are back to the first three strips.
# Continuous, 18 sheep. Continuous grazing on same paddock. 3 paddocks in total; 6 heads per paddock.

Subgroups for both group A and B (6 heads) are randomly arranged every day. The 18 strip paddocks are the same total size as the three continuous paddocks. They have the same number of heads grazing and the same live weight load.

Both groups are balanced for BW, receive the same hay in quantity and quality with ad libitum access and spend the same time at pasture. Daily sampling of the hay and residual per group is done, weekly sub samples of hay and residual are analyzed. In parallel fresh grass is sampled and analyzed to represent the 2 grazing methods.

The GreenFeed is located in the barn, at 9AM this barn is closed for group A and opens for group B and this switches every day. The GreenFeed is the only place they can get concentrates. Nutritional information for this concentrate can be found [[:File:Nutritional table sheep DAFHNE.docx|here]]. Amount of food and cup drops can be found here.

Trial started end of March 2025 and will last 1.5 months. They are using the GF adapted for small ruminants.

=== Buffalo ===
This is a continuous trial which will last 4 months per supplement tested. First they monitor the buffalo for 4 weeks without supplement as a control diet and then there will be an 8 week experimental period with the supplement diet. During the entire period the buffalo are confined to the barn.

The buffalo are separated in two groups, in adjacent pens. One group has access to a milking robot, with the MooLogger from [[Sniffer SOP|Tecnosens.]] The other pen has a conventional milking system and the GreenFeed is placed facing this pen.

All buffaloes are fed the same concentrates. Nutritional information for this concentrate can be found [[:File:Nutritional table Buffalo DAFHNE.docx|here]]. Amount of food and cup drops can be found here. The buffalo’s in the GF group get the concentrates from the GF and about 1 kg of concentrates during milking operations. The buffalo’s in the sniffer group only get concentrates from the milking robot, which is about 2 kg/head/day.

To account for the emissions recorded individually at different times, they compare the emissions data aggregated on a daily basis. They are using the GF adapted for large ruminants with horns

== MethaBreed ==
The [https://livestock-functional-microbiology.uni-hohenheim.de/en/research-projects#jfmulticontent_c401477-2 MethaBreed] project aims to improve the sustainability of dairy production by developing innovative breeding strategies for dairy cows that simultaneously reduce methane emissions, enhance feed efficiency, and support animal health. A large-scale longitudinal study is being conducted in commercial dairy herds. Using advanced technologies, individual cow traits are recorded across entire lactations and multiple lactation cycles. Data collection includes continuous monitoring of methane emissions using sniffers, feed intake (using CFIT: Cattle Feed Intake System), body weight (using CFIT and scales), and key health parameters. A particular focus lies on the role of the rumen microbiome in methane production. A central goal of MethaBreed is the development of a new breeding value for methane emissions, enabling the selection of animals with lower environmental impact. These data will be integrated with pedigree and genomic information to allow precise breeding decisions. At the same time, the existing breeding value for feed efficiency will be further refined. The outcomes of the project are expected to make a significant contribution towards more climate-friendly dairy production. In the long term, standardized breeding values will be provided, enabling breeding organizations and farmers to actively select for healthier, more efficient, and more sustainable dairy cows.

== Presentation materials ==

=== Seminar by Julius van der Werf: Breeding for a changing climate 13-05-2025 ===
On the 13th of May Julius van de Werf gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on selection indexes for selecting low methane livestock, focused on sheep. You can find the slides [[:File:20250513 Seminar J.v.d.Werf.pdf|here]]. You can find the recording of the presentation below.

<youtube>PxKmxKVvVEA?si=C6x0keKAvgU009Da</youtube>

=== Seminar by Maria Frizzarin: Introduction to milk mid-infrared spectroscopy 10-07-2025 ===
On the 10th of July Maria Frizzarin gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on milk mid-infrared spectroscopy, equations development, and applications. You can find the slides [[:File:10072025 Seminar Maria MIR.pdf|here.]]

=== Seminar by Sarah-Joe Burn: Breed4Green 25-09-2025 ===
On the 25th of September Sarah-Joe Burn gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on measuring methane emissions in commercial farms and establishing a comprehensive dataset for genetic studies. A similar presentations was given at EAAP 2025, you can find the slides to that presentation [[:File:Eaap2025-breed4green-linke.pdf|here]] and the abstract [[:File:2025 Innsbruck EAAP Book Abstracts.pdf|here]], page 250.

=== Joint ICAR Feed&Gas and ASGGN workshop ===
On the 5th of October the joint workshop between the [https://www.icar.org/group/working-group-feed-and-gas/ ICAR Feed&Gas working group] and the [https://www.asggn.org/ ASGGN] took place before the GGAA conference in Nairobi. The presentations can be found below.

[[:File:2025 ASGGN - GGAA - A Taste of the Future Buccal Swabbing for Rumen Microbial ProfilingTB.pdf|A Taste of the Future: Buccal Swabbing for Rumen Microbial Profiling]]. Presented by Ben Perry ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:2638 Booker ILRI GGAA ASGGN Oct 2025.pdf|Rate of Genetic Gain for Methane Emissions in a Maternal Production Flock]]. Presented by Fem Booker ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:Boris ICAR2025 v01.pdf|Association between rumen and faecal microbiome and enteric methane emissions in dairy cattle]]. Presented by Boris Sepulveda ([https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/ AV])

[[:File:CaeliRichardson GGAA Workshop 2025.pdf|Global Framework to Monitor, Measure, and Account for Methane Reductions from Genetic Selection]]. Presented by Caeli Richardson ([https://abacusbio.com/ Abacusbio])

[[:File:GGAA Workshop ICAR and ASGGN Ida Storm.pdf|Danish Perspectives on implementation of GHG regulation]]. Presented by Ida Storm ([https://agricultureandfood.dk/ DAFG])

[[:File:GGAA Workshop ICAR and ASGGN Rasmus Stephansen.pdf|Experience with CH4 sniffers, what have we learned so far?]] Presented by Rasmus Stephansen ([https://international.au.dk/ AU])

[[:File:GGAA workshop MIR methane presentation.pdf|Overview of the methane equations developed from mid-infrared spectroscopy and their applications.]] Presented by Maria Frizzarin ([https://www.agroscope.admin.ch/agroscope/en/home.html Agroscope])

[[:File:HanneHonerlagen ICARpresentation.pdf|Adding microbial data to enhance breeding for lower methane emissions]]. Presented by Hanne Honerlagen ([https://www.wur.nl/en/research-results/chair-groups/animal-sciences/animal-breeding-and-genomics-group.htm WUR-ABG])

[[:File:McNaughton ASGGN Workshop final.pdf|GreenFeed for phenotyping – our experiences]]. Presented by Lorna McNaughton ([https://www.lic.co.nz/ LIC])

[[:File:MIE ILRI GGAA ASGGN Oct 2025.pdf|Methane Index Explorer: Optimising a Breeding Value Format for Simultaneous Inclusion of Enteric Methane Emissions in Breeding Schemes and National Inventories]]. Presented by Pavithra Ariyarathne ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:RiccardoGGAA Presentation RB.pdf|ZELP sense]]. Presented by Riccardo Bica ([https://www.zelp.co/ ZELP])

[[:File:ICAR Working group Nairobi 5 Oct2025.pdf|Selection for lower methane livestock, selection index considerations]]. Presented by Julius van der Werf (UNE)

Measuring enteric methane in beef and dairy cattle using PAC. Presented by Timothy Bilton ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])<youtube>https://youtu.be/NjPuotrmkMQ</youtube>

Estimating methane emissions with the GreenFeed System. Presented by Paul Smith ([https://teagasc.ie/ Teagasc]) <youtube>https://youtu.be/TnHefWoP29I</youtube>

Section 20: Methane measuring methods

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Section 20: Wearables

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Section 20: Sniffer SOP

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Section 20: Wearables

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Section 20: Wearables

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Section 20: Wearables

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Section 20: Wearables

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Section 20: Methane measuring methods

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Section 20: Methane measuring methods

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Section 20: Activities

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NOTE: This version of Section 20 has been approved by the working group's Chair. Please be aware that further revisions may occur before final review and approval by the Board and ICAR members per the [[Approval of Page Process]].

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== Global Methane Genetics ==
[[File:GMG label.png|right|frameless|300x300px]]
The Global Methane Genetics (GMG) initiative is a global program to accelerate genetic progress in methane emission in ruminants in the Global North and South. This WUR-ABG coordinated initiative is funded by the [https://www.globalmethanehub.org/ Global Methane Hub] and the [https://www.bezosearthfund.org/ Bezos Earth Fund,] both based on philanthropic funds to support methane mitigation and prevent global warming. If you have questions about the [https://www.wur.nl/en/project/global-methane-genetics-initiative.htm GMG initiative] you can send an email to gmg@wur.nl, contact Roel Veerkamp: roel.veerkamp@wur.nl or Birgit Gredler-Grandl: birgit.gredler-grandl@wur.nl.

The initiative holds the following projects:

=== '''Dairy Cattle''' ===
We can look to nature to reduce CH4 emissions and use genetic diversity to provide solutions. Genetic improvement, based on identifying animals with genetic predisposition for lower CH4 output and using them to breed for the next generations, is a reliable, cost-effective, and permanent method for transforming livestock's impact on the environment. Breeding programs in dairy cattle are run within breeds and across countries. Therefore, the program will accelerate genetic progress by focusing on four major dairy breeds and organizations and countries involved in those breeds. Additionally, the program will acquire considerable leverage through investments in these countries. If you have questions about the dairy cattle section you can contact Birgit Gredler-Grandl: birgit.gredler-grandl@wur.nl.

==== ''Holstein breed'' ====
The largest data collection has been for the Holstein breed, but there is a lack of standardization and protocols in terms of equipment and its utilization (farm level, data processing, data sharing agreements, genetic evaluations, and data collections). Governments and breeding organizations in Denmark and the Netherlands will collaborate and collect methane and genotypes on more than 20,000 Holstein cows for the GMG database. Also, Poland and Italy team up to collect data for the GMG database, and their aim is also to collect more than 20,000 Holstein animals and develop genetic evaluations across a wide range of systems.

===== Denmark-The Netherlands =====
This collaboration between Aarhus University and Wageningen Livestock Research has five main goals. The contact person for questions about this project is Trine Villumsen: tmv@qgg.au.dk.

* Setting up Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for measuring methane using sniffers
* Setting up international protocols to measure methane on commercial farms
* Develop software tools to automate the processing of data into a phenotype
* Combine historical data in both countries for genetic evaluations
* Measure enteric methane in 20.000 new cows.

===== Poland-Italy =====
This collaboration has the following main goals. The contact person for questions about this project is Raffaella Finocchiaro raffaellafinocchiaro@anafibj.it.

* Measure enteric methane in 20.000 new cows.

==== ''Jersey breed'' ====
Currently, due to the limited data available, the Jersey dairy breed does not have breeding values for methane (CH4) mitigation. The goal of the program is to collect methane genotypes in Canada and Denmark and share this information with the GMG database. The aim is to develop breeding values that will be distributed through the World Jersey Cattle Bureau organization and national Jersey organizations in Australia, Canada, Switzerland, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and New Zealand. If you have questions about the Jersey breed section you can contact Rasmus Bak Stephansen rasmus.stephansen@qgg.au.dk

==== ''Brown Swiss breed'' ====
The Brown Swiss (BS) breed faces significant challenges due to its small population size, an divers environments the animals are kept. A collaboration between Germany, Switzerland, and Austria to phenotype enough animals is a prerequisite for utilizing the genetic potential of reducing methane emission of the BS breed. In addition to a population of 250 cows recorded with Greenfeed, and 1250 with the sniffer, progress will be accelerated by recording an additional 3,360 cows with sniffers. If you have questions about the Brown Swiss breed section you can contact Elena Frenken: fe@fbf-forschung.de.

==== ''Red breeds'' ====
The red breeds are important for crossbreeding in many countries around the world. The project aims to share and collect CH4 data from Red Dairy Cattle (RDC) breeds (in the Nordic countries, Canada, and the United Kingdom (UK)) and share it with the Global Methane Genetics (GMG) Hub. Together, they will set up a shared genetic evaluation for bulls used for crossbreeding in many more countries. If you have questions about the Red breed section you can contact Elisenda Rius-Vilarrasa: Elisenda.Rius-Vilarrasa@vxa.se.

=== '''Beef Cattle''' ===

==== ''Bluegrass (global beef)'' ====
All industries world-wide have been challenged with reducing emissions and beef is no exception. Genetic selection and specifically genomic selection have been identified as key tools to help meet this challenge. Methane emissions are not a local problem, but a global one and several major beef producing countries who exchange genetic material have, are, and will be collecting methane phenotypes for the purpose of genomic prediction. Individually (including those in Australia), these datasets will be limited in their genomic prediction accuracy. The BLUEGRASS alliance will bring together the key players globally, who collectively have solicited key seed funding from the Global Methane Hub. By sharing data and resources, the development of necessary reference populations will be accelerated. Locally or globally, success in the beef genetics industry has been a model of ‘co-opetition’. Breeders, although competitors, pool resources to build tools that can be used by all to compete with one another. This BLUEGRASS alliance is no different. A global alliance will come together to address this challenge, with or without Australia. Having Australia lead and ignite the alliance with MDC co-funding will create opportunities to direct this global initiative and provide first mover advantages for Australian breeders.

The program is focused on building genomic reference datasets for the main beef breeds in the collaborating countries. The animals to be recorded will be intensively recorded for other production traits, and genotyped, outside this project itself. In each country, trial or research breeding values will be produced and delivered to industry during the life of the project – enabling genetic selection against methane to get underway, and the data will underpin the ability to genomically screen the entire populations of the breeds involved in the respective countries i.e. all seedstock and commercial animals. The data collected will likely assist development of genomic selection against methane in other countries. The accelerated genetic selection and the commercial animal screening will enable real impact to reduce methane from beef cattle. If you have questions about the bluegrass project specifically, you can contact Steve Miller, steve.miller@une.edu.au

===== Number of phenotypes =====
This project will phenotype methane traits in beef cattle populations in the US, Australia, the UK, Ireland, and New Zealand. Around 18.500 phenotypes will be collected over all years and countries. It is estimated that around 7.000 phenotypes will be collected in Australia, around 1.600 in New Zealand, around 800 in the UK, around 2.000 in Ireland and around 7.00 in the USA.
===== Breeds and traits included =====
All countries included in the Bluegrass project have different breeds and different target traits included in their measurements, besides the methane phenotypes.

Australia will focus on Angus and Hereford seedstock with a research population of Angus, Wagyu, Charolais, Shorthorn and Brahman being a target as well. For the seedstock they will focus on seedstock traits plus methane measurements using PAC measures. For the research populations on seedstock traits plus feed intake, carcass as well as methane measurements with PAC.

For New Zealand priority is the progeny test herds. These are mostly Angus, Hereford and their crosses, including a diallel cross design. Some Angus x Simmental. Complete requirements with seedstock herds of Angus and Hereford. Focus is on the following: progeny test, seedstock traits, conception date (via fetal aging) from natural mate at yearling (then re-breeding), carcass grading on steers, feed intake on heifers, rumen microbiome on steers and heifers, seedstock traits from seedstock herds

For the UK focus lies on Angus and Hereford sired animals, both pedigree and crossbred (including from dairy dams) and they focus on liveweights.

For Ireland they include multi-breed/crossbreed. 30% Charolais and Limousin sired from Continental type suckler dams, 30% Holstein-Friesian and 40% beef (mostly Angus) cross dairy. They will focus on feed intake, liveweight and carcass data.

The USA will be measuring Angus focused on seedstock traits from seedstock herds.

==== ''US beef'' ====
This project will accelerate genetic selection for reduced methane emissions from U.S. and Canadian beef cattle, through phenotyping and genotyping the 18 most influential beef breeds in North America.

The primary activities of this project will center on phenotyping and genetic evaluation of the Germplasm Evaluation (GPE) herd, a large, multibreed resource population at the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) in Nebraska, USA. This herd is structured to represent the genetic diversity of the 18 most influential beef breeds in the U.S.. These 18 breeds are: Angus, Red Angus, Hereford, South Devon, Shorthorn, Beefmaster, Brangus, Brahman, Santa Gertrudis, Braunvieh, ChiAngus, Charolais, Gelbvieh, Limousin, Maine-Anjou, Salers, Simmental, Tarentaise.

Recording of methane phenotypes will occur using multiple approaches to not only maximize the number of phenotypes collected, but to also offer a comparison between methodologies within a U.S. beef production system. Based on these findings and in coordination with other GMG project teams, standard operating procedures for methane phenotyping of beef cattle will be developed and integrated into the [https://beefimprovement.org/resource-center/bif-guidelines/ Guidelines for Uniform Beef Improvement Programs] supporting the evolution of these approaches into standard practice and routine evaluation in any beef breeding system. If you have questions about the US beef project specifically, you can contact Matthew Spangler, mspangler2@unl.edu.

===== Main goals =====
* Recording methane phenotypes from at least 5,500 multi-breed genotyped beef cattle and openly sharing to the GMG database and the public domain.
* Development and publication of uniform guidelines for both methane phenotyping in beef cattle systems and the integration of methane phenotypes into beef genetic evaluations, through the BIF Guidelines wiki.
* Dissemination and routine updating of genetic parameter and genomic marker effects critical for the development of genetic selection tools and deployment of methane-reducing breeding programs.

=== '''Sheep''' ===
This project focusses on recording methane phenotypes on animals in various populations, e.g. Merino, Texel, Dohne, Corriedale, maternal and terminal. In each case, those animals will be recorded for a range of other production, health, product quality and welfare traits (the exact suite of traits varies between countries). This ensures that it will be possible to determine the genetic relationships between methane traits and the other traits included in current and future selection indexes and breeding programs – meaning that breeders will be able to make informed decisions on any trade-offs between methane and other traits. In total around 16.600 methane phenotypes will be collected over all years and countries. It is estimated that around 7.500 methane phenotypes will be collected in Australia, 3.000 in Uruguay, 4.000 in New Zealand, 1.200 in the UK and 1.000 in the UK. If you have questions about the sheep project specifically, you can contact Daniel Brown, dbrown2@une.edu.au
==== Main goals ====
* Phenotyping and reference populations. Fast tracked phenotyping and genotyping up to 16,000 records of methane traits across the key countries to facilitate accurate international evaluation of animals (Table 2).
* Genetic evaluation and models. Breeding values based on international genomic evaluation models to share the benefits of the established reference populations.
* Proxies. Development and validation of new phenotyping methods to expedite genetic progress.
* Breeding Programs. Whole farm system models to incorporate methane into breeding objectives in a balanced way and indexes to facilitate selection of breeding candidates.
* Education and adoption. Stakeholder engagement campaign and international development to ensure world-wide impact.

=== '''Africa''' ===
This project focused on three regions of Africa (Eastern, Western and Southern Africa). It will will leverage and accelerate on-going early research on GHG in these regions, strongly build capacity and team up with researchers to record CH4, other economic productive traits and use the records to implement breeding strategies to reduce CH4 emission while simultaneously enhancing productivity, food security and employment opportunities in the dairy and beef cattle farming systems; The source of livelihood for many poorly resourced farmers.

Tapping into the existing breeding program infrastructure for improved productivity for dairy cattle in the three regions of Africa, this project will result in overall program that will accelerate genetic progress through focus on phenotyping, genotyping and the use of information from the microbiome in the genetic selection of animals in the smallholder dairy system. The overall impact will be better mitigation of negative effects of climate change and more productive cows. Through selection programs based on the index developed with the phenotypic and genomic information from this project.

The major activities include the direct CH4 measurements on about 1.655 tropical cattle using [[Greenfeed SOP|GreenFeed]] and the use of [[Laser Methane Detector|LMD]] in smallholder farmers. Genotypic information and phenotypes captured routinely on major important productive traits that influence profitability, income and livelihood of farmers on 1.619 animals. Data sets will be linked to a larger existing data on 9.000 cows with phenotypic and genotypic information from existing projects. If you have questions about the Africa project specifically, you can contact Raphael Mrode, raphael.mrode@sruc.ac.uk

==== Main goals ====

* Methane measurements available on 1.655 tropical cows.
* Tissue samples and genotypes available on 1.619 tropical cows.
* Genetic relationship between dairy cows in Western and Eastern Africa estimated.
* Multi-trait genomic analysis of dairy data and methane in Eastern Africa.
* Incorporate existing data on over 9.000 cows from existing research projects to enhance genomic prediction.
* Computation and the roll out of final selection index or sub-indexes developed for improved efficiency - reduced CH4 emission, lower maintenance requirement and increased milk production.

=== '''Latin America''' ===
The aim of this project is to accelerate the reduction of enteric methane emissions in beef cattle in Latin America through genetic selection in key breeds relevant to Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, and Mexico. The focus will be on phenotyping methane emissions and genotyping animals linked to existing genetic improvement programs. Reference populations for genomic selection will be the basis to improve the estimation of genetic merit and select for lower emission. The link with ongoing genetic improvement programs provides data on other economically relevant production traits, thus making it possible to estimate genetic correlations and optimize methane emission reductions with a minimum impact on livestock productivity. This approach minimizes negative impacts on food production while preserving economic, social, and environmental sustainability of beef cattle farming. This collaborative project between national agricultural research institutes (NARI) is supported by breeders’ associations and other key stakeholders. Public-private partnerships and collaborative efforts will scale genetic evaluation for methane emissions as well as the use of lower methane emission genetics on commercial farms. Phenotypic and genomic data from approximately 7.000 animals will be made globally available. In synergy with other projects, it will be possible to increase the size of reference populations leading to an even greater impact on methane emissions mitigation. If you have questions about the Latin America project specifically, you can contact Elly Navajas, enavajas@inia.org.uy

For developing methane emission phenotyping platforms and reference populations, it is essential to upgrade methane emission recording equipment as well as standardize and coordinate the measurement of animals. Standardized protocols will be developed in collaboration with ICAR, and the criteria for selecting animals to be measured and genotyped will be established by the research team, including technicians from breeder associations. A critical component of the project involves genetic analyses, such as estimating genetic parameters for methane emission-related traits, validating breeding values in additional populations, and evaluating the impact of selecting for reduced methane emissions. Scientific collaboration will be fostered with other beef cattle projects, focusing on areas such as expertise exchange. Communication strategies will be implemented to engage stakeholders, including breeders, artificial insemination centers, policymakers, and other private stakeholders. Dialogue with teams managing greenhouse gas (GHG) inventories and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) will also be enhanced. These activities require active collaboration among countries and stakeholders in Latin America to achieve successful outcomes.

==== Main goals ====

* A Latin American collaborative network for accelerating genetic improvement for methane emissions reduction is established by NARIs, universities, breeder societies, and private stakeholders engaged in genetic evaluation programs across South America and Mexico.
* Methane emission phenotyping platforms are implemented, enabling data collection across key beef cattle breeds, targeting 7.000 methane emission phenotypes and genotypes of animals linked to genetic evaluations.
* Genomic-enhanced estimated breeding values for methane emissions will be available to breeders: based on pure-breed and multi-breed reference populations enhanced through collaboration and data sharing across beef cattle projects within the GMG initiative.
* The economic and environmental impact of breeding strategies to reduce methane emissions is assessed, to identify the most promising breeding strategies to accelerate methane emission reduction. The development of breeding objectives combining methane emission reduction with production goals will support policy and incentives for breeders and farmers to overcome adoption barriers and integrate the results into national GHG inventories.

=== '''Microbiome''' ===
The micro-HUB project will establish a reference population with metagenome and genotype data, and create a genomic evaluation system that can be used to select the parents of the next generation with microbiome profiles that produce less enteric methane while maintaining genetic progress in profit and health. The genomic evaluation system will be widely open, will target most relevant breeds and production systems. Furthermore, a large global microbiome network will be established to collect existing data and knowledge and ensure knowledge transfer.

This project will start with metagenome and genomic data on 5.430 individuals from the core project partners, we will explore the opportunity to extend and expand our reference population to other countries with suitable data. By combining national data sets with genotypes, microbiome and methane information, we aim to create the largest rumen microbiome reference population globally. We aim to enlarge the reference population by more than 20.000 microbiome sequenced dairy and beef cattle as well as sheep from the Global Methane Genetics (GMG) program. From this, we will facilitate the delivery of genomic breeding values that can be used in global breeding programs to select for a microbiome composition with lower emissions and reduce the abundance of methanogenic pathways in the rumen microbiome of future generations of cattle and sheep. The project partners cover beef, dairy and sheep populations and creates an opportunity to identify a core microbiome (or set of cores) that can be used as a reference for nation-based breeding programs. The project will closely connect to the other projects within the Global Methane Program, to facilitate microbiome sampling, sequencing and genomic analysis. If you have questions about the microbiome project specifically, you can contact Oscar Gonzalez-Recio, oscar.gonzalezrecio@ed.ac.uk

==== Activities ====
To enlarge the national database partners will obtain additional samples from animals with methane and genotype data from different breeds and production systems within the GMG phenotyping program (dairy and beef cattle). The inclusion of samples from external partners will be encouraged. Partners (also external) will be provided with instruction to collect data and sample rumen microbiome. The micro-Hub will provide stewardship for GMG partners regarding sampling, storage and shipping, as well as bioinformatic analysis. Rumen metagenome sequencing will be centralized in as fewer labs as possible (ideally only one).

Reference populations from partners will be combined, covering a broad range of breeds and productions systems and different geographical regions. Format of the databases will be unified. The combined dataset will be used for the microbiome genomic evaluations. The reference database will be updated with additional data coming from external partners.

We will develop the capabilities to estimate the genomic breeding value for microbiome composition for any genotyped animal in similar productive conditions as those represented in our reference population. The goal is to propose recommendations based on own experience to include estimated genomic breeding values for rumen microbiome profile in breeding programs.

The project will contribute to the activities organized within Global Methane Genetics and the ICAR Feed&Gas working group in building a microbiome network to exchange knowledge, harmonize guidelines and develop protocols. All data generated within the project will be made available through the Global Methane Genetics database. The project will collaborate with the database development to develop microbiome sharing requirements and specifications.

==== Main goals ====

* Joint reference metagenome compiled.
* Microbiome genomic evaluations.
* Release of SNP coefficients for international genomic evaluations for microbiome compositions.
* Network building and establishment of platform for rumen metagenome data.

=== '''Working Group meetings''' ===

The six working groups as described above meet two times a year to discuss the progress of their projects and to share knowledge. There are also general webinars organized for the project participants throughout the years.

==== Dairy Cattle ====
On the 15th of May 2025 the Working Group Dairy cattle met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:250515 GMG meeting Dairy Working Group.pdf|here.]]

On the 27th of October 2025 the Working Group Cattle had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251027 GMG Working group Dairy meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Sheep ====
On the 20th of May 2025 the Working Sheep met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:20250520 Meeting GMG Working group sheep.pdf|here.]]

On the 11th of November 2025 the Working Group Sheep had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251111 Sheep Working Group GMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

==== Microbiome ====
On the 23th of May 2025 the Working Group Microbiome met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:202505 Global Meeting Genetics Microbiome working group meeting.pdf|here.]]

On the 27th of November 2025 the Working Group Microbiome had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251127 GMG Microbiome WG presentation.pdf|here.]]

On the 2nd of December 2025 the Working group microbiome organized a Q&A session about microbiome sampling. You can find the slides [[:File:20251202 GMG meeting MicroHub Q&A.pdf|here.]]

==== Latin America ====
On the 5th of June 2025 the Working Group Latin America met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:202506 Presentation GMG Working Group Latin America meeting.pdf|here.]]

On the 14th of November 2025 the Working Group Latin America had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251114 Latin America GMG Work group meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Africa ====
On the 23th of May 2025 the Working Group Africa met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:20250523 GMG Working group Africa meeting.pdf|here.]]

On the 7th of November 2025 the Working Group Africa had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251107 Africa Workgroup GMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

==== Beef ====
On the 17th of June 2025 the Working Group Beef met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:202506 GMG Working group Beef meeting.pdf|here.]]

On the 11th of November 2025 the Working Group Beef had their second meeting, the current progress was shared and other projects and bottlenecks were discussed. You can find the presentation slides [[:File:20251106 GMG Working group Beef meeting.pdf|here.]]

==== Asia ====
On the 1th of July 2025 the Working Group Asia met for the first time and shared their current progress, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:20250701 AsiaGMG presentation.pdf|here.]]

On the 25th of November the Working Group Asia organized a webinar for parties interested in contributing to the Asia group. You can find slides on data to impact [[:File:GMG Asia From data to impact.pdf|here]], an introduction into the GMG [[:File:Asia 20251105.pdf|here]], slides on methane recording techniques [[:File:2511 GMG Asia MethaneMethods.pdf|here]] and a presentation about [[Laser Methane Detector|LMD]] and their experiences from ILRI [[:File:ILRI LMD Exp 2025.pdf|here]].

==== Webinars ====
On the 22th of May 2025 there was a webinar for all GMG project participants on effective records in the database, you can find the presentation slides [[:File:250515 GMG meeting Dairy Working Group.pdf|here.]]

== DAFNE ==
Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences at the University of Tuscia. Their main purpose is to collect primary emissions data from sniffers and GF to have emissions factors related to the species, breed, physiological state and diet management. They are engaged with ANAFIBJ and sharing data related to Holstein cattle with them for genetic evaluations. Currently they are running trials with sheep and buffalo.

=== Sheep ===
For this trial they are comparing 2 grazing methods using 2 groups of Sopravissana sheep, reared at the facility.

# Rotational, 18 sheep. Turns every 4 days on strip paddocks. 18 paddocks in total; 6 heads on 3 strip paddocks per turn of grazing. After 24 days the sheep are back to the first three strips.
# Continuous, 18 sheep. Continuous grazing on same paddock. 3 paddocks in total; 6 heads per paddock.

Subgroups for both group A and B (6 heads) are randomly arranged every day. The 18 strip paddocks are the same total size as the three continuous paddocks. They have the same number of heads grazing and the same live weight load.

Both groups are balanced for BW, receive the same hay in quantity and quality with ad libitum access and spend the same time at pasture. Daily sampling of the hay and residual per group is done, weekly sub samples of hay and residual are analyzed. In parallel fresh grass is sampled and analyzed to represent the 2 grazing methods.

The GreenFeed is located in the barn, at 9AM this barn is closed for group A and opens for group B and this switches every day. The GreenFeed is the only place they can get concentrates. Nutritional information for this concentrate can be found [[:File:Nutritional table sheep DAFHNE.docx|here]]. Amount of food and cup drops can be found here.

Trial started end of March 2025 and will last 1.5 months. They are using the GF adapted for small ruminants.

=== Buffalo ===
This is a continuous trial which will last 4 months per supplement tested. First they monitor the buffalo for 4 weeks without supplement as a control diet and then there will be an 8 week experimental period with the supplement diet. During the entire period the buffalo are confined to the barn.

The buffalo are separated in two groups, in adjacent pens. One group has access to a milking robot, with the MooLogger from [[Sniffer SOP|Tecnosens.]] The other pen has a conventional milking system and the GreenFeed is placed facing this pen.

All buffaloes are fed the same concentrates. Nutritional information for this concentrate can be found [[:File:Nutritional table Buffalo DAFHNE.docx|here]]. Amount of food and cup drops can be found here. The buffalo’s in the GF group get the concentrates from the GF and about 1 kg of concentrates during milking operations. The buffalo’s in the sniffer group only get concentrates from the milking robot, which is about 2 kg/head/day.

To account for the emissions recorded individually at different times, they compare the emissions data aggregated on a daily basis. They are using the GF adapted for large ruminants with horns

== Presentation materials ==

=== Seminar by Julius van der Werf: Breeding for a changing climate 13-05-2025 ===
On the 13th of May Julius van de Werf gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on selection indexes for selecting low methane livestock, focused on sheep. You can find the slides [[:File:20250513 Seminar J.v.d.Werf.pdf|here]]. You can find the recording of the presentation below.

<youtube>PxKmxKVvVEA?si=C6x0keKAvgU009Da</youtube>

=== Seminar by Maria Frizzarin: Introduction to milk mid-infrared spectroscopy 10-07-2025 ===
On the 10th of July Maria Frizzarin gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on milk mid-infrared spectroscopy, equations development, and applications. You can find the slides [[:File:10072025 Seminar Maria MIR.pdf|here.]]

=== Seminar by Sarah-Joe Burn: Breed4Green 25-09-2025 ===
On the 25th of September Sarah-Joe Burn gave a presentation at Wageningen Livestock Research on measuring methane emissions in commercial farms and establishing a comprehensive dataset for genetic studies. A similar presentations was given at EAAP 2025, you can find the slides to that presentation [[:File:Eaap2025-breed4green-linke.pdf|here]] and the abstract [[:File:2025 Innsbruck EAAP Book Abstracts.pdf|here]], page 250.

=== Joint ICAR Feed&Gas and ASGGN workshop ===
On the 5th of October the joint workshop between the [https://www.icar.org/group/working-group-feed-and-gas/ ICAR Feed&Gas working group] and the [https://www.asggn.org/ ASGGN] took place before the GGAA conference in Nairobi. The presentations can be found below.

[[:File:2025 ASGGN - GGAA - A Taste of the Future Buccal Swabbing for Rumen Microbial ProfilingTB.pdf|A Taste of the Future: Buccal Swabbing for Rumen Microbial Profiling]]. Presented by Ben Perry ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:2638 Booker ILRI GGAA ASGGN Oct 2025.pdf|Rate of Genetic Gain for Methane Emissions in a Maternal Production Flock]]. Presented by Fem Booker ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:Boris ICAR2025 v01.pdf|Association between rumen and faecal microbiome and enteric methane emissions in dairy cattle]]. Presented by Boris Sepulveda ([https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/ AV])

[[:File:CaeliRichardson GGAA Workshop 2025.pdf|Global Framework to Monitor, Measure, and Account for Methane Reductions from Genetic Selection]]. Presented by Caeli Richardson ([https://abacusbio.com/ Abacusbio])

[[:File:GGAA Workshop ICAR and ASGGN Ida Storm.pdf|Danish Perspectives on implementation of GHG regulation]]. Presented by Ida Storm ([https://agricultureandfood.dk/ DAFG])

[[:File:GGAA Workshop ICAR and ASGGN Rasmus Stephansen.pdf|Experience with CH4 sniffers, what have we learned so far?]] Presented by Rasmus Stephansen ([https://international.au.dk/ AU])

[[:File:GGAA workshop MIR methane presentation.pdf|Overview of the methane equations developed from mid-infrared spectroscopy and their applications.]] Presented by Maria Frizzarin ([https://www.agroscope.admin.ch/agroscope/en/home.html Agroscope])

[[:File:HanneHonerlagen ICARpresentation.pdf|Adding microbial data to enhance breeding for lower methane emissions]]. Presented by Hanne Honerlagen ([https://www.wur.nl/en/research-results/chair-groups/animal-sciences/animal-breeding-and-genomics-group.htm WUR-ABG])

[[:File:McNaughton ASGGN Workshop final.pdf|GreenFeed for phenotyping – our experiences]]. Presented by Lorna McNaughton ([https://www.lic.co.nz/ LIC])

[[:File:MIE ILRI GGAA ASGGN Oct 2025.pdf|Methane Index Explorer: Optimising a Breeding Value Format for Simultaneous Inclusion of Enteric Methane Emissions in Breeding Schemes and National Inventories]]. Presented by Pavithra Ariyarathne ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])

[[:File:RiccardoGGAA Presentation RB.pdf|ZELP sense]]. Presented by Riccardo Bica ([https://www.zelp.co/ ZELP])

[[:File:ICAR Working group Nairobi 5 Oct2025.pdf|Selection for lower methane livestock, selection index considerations]]. Presented by Julius van der Werf (UNE)

Measuring enteric methane in beef and dairy cattle using PAC. Presented by Timothy Bilton ([https://www.bioeconomyscience.co.nz/ NZIBS])<youtube>https://youtu.be/NjPuotrmkMQ</youtube>

Estimating methane emissions with the GreenFeed System. Presented by Paul Smith ([https://teagasc.ie/ Teagasc]) <youtube>https://youtu.be/TnHefWoP29I</youtube>

File:20251202 GMG meeting MicroHub Q&A.pdf

2025-12-18T06:46:49Z

Cvangemert:

Slides from the Q&A session organized by the microbiome Working group

Section 20: Sniffer SOP

2025-12-17T10:01:27Z

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