Conservation and use of the biodiversity of the Guaymi and Guabalá Creole cattle of Panama

The project seeks to preserve native breeds, which are threatened by the predominance of imported breeds and inadequate crossbreeding. It is planned to maintain and expand both in situ and in vitro conservation centers, including a new nucleus in Buena Vista and a replication center in Divisa. In addition, these breeds will be morphologically and molecularly characterized to identify their adaptations and disease resistance. Herd management will be adjusted to improve reproductive and growth efficiency, and the production of purebred breeding stock will be encouraged to strengthen the conservation nuclei. By the end of the project, it is expected that a breeders' association will have been formed and producers and extensionists will have been trained in the sustainable management of these herds, strengthening the conservation and sustainable use of these creole breeds.