Essential and recommended books for animal breeding and genetic evaluation
Raphael A. Mrode, Ivan Pocrnic
The 4th edition of this comprehensive textbook covering BLUP, linear models, and genetic evaluation methods. Essential reading for understanding modern animal breeding.
Charles R. Henderson
Classic textbook by C.R. Henderson, the father of BLUP. Fundamental reading for understanding mixed model equations and genetic evaluation.
Andres Legarra, Daniela A.L. Lourenco, Zulma G. Vitezica
Modern textbook on genomic selection and prediction methods. Covers single-step GBLUP, GWAS, and advanced genomic methods. Latest 2024 edition.
Larry R. Schaeffer
Comprehensive course notes on animal models for genetic evaluation. Clear explanations with practical examples.
L. Dale Van Vleck
The "Green Book" - an excellent introduction to quantitative genetics and animal breeding principles. Great for first year Masters students.
Known as the "Green Book" in the animal breeding community
N.D. Cameron
Comprehensive coverage of selection index theory and application in animal breeding programs.
Richard M. Bourdon
Perfect for undergraduates and new graduate students with no breeding background. Clear, accessible introduction to animal breeding principles. Second edition.
Wageningen University & Research
Comprehensive undergraduate textbook from Wageningen University. Covers fundamental principles of animal breeding and genetics. Second edition (2024).
Cedric Gondro, Julius van der Werf, Ben Hayes
Modern methods for GWAS and genomic prediction. Essential reading for understanding contemporary genomic breeding approaches.
L. Dale Van Vleck
Course notes on selection principles and breeding methods from Dr. Van Vleck.
Joel I. Weller
Covers the economic considerations and decision-making in animal breeding programs. Essential for understanding breeding program design.
Beef Improvement Federation
Practical guidelines for implementing beef cattle improvement programs. Wiki-based resource updated regularly.
Start with the "Green Book" (Van Vleck 1993) or WUR Undergraduate textbook for fundamentals.
Move to Schaeffer's Animal Models and Cameron's Selection Indices.
Study Henderson (1984) and Mrode (2023) for deep understanding of BLUP and genetic evaluation.
Legarra's Genomic Prediction book covers contemporary genomic selection approaches.
