Domestic Biodiversity in Romania From Agrarian Epochs to the Conservation of Indigenous Genetic Resources
Abstract:
This study analyzes the evolution of domestic animal biodiversity in Romania from a historical and socio-economic perspective, highlighting the profound influence of agricultural transformations on the native genetic heritage. Six major stages are identified—from the prehistoric pastoral era to the post-communist transition—each marking sig nificant changes in the structure of domestic animal populations and selection strategies. Political, economic, and technological factors have shaped the profile of local breeds, sometimes fostering and other times marginalizing tra ditional genetic resources. Today, amid the biodiversity crisis and climate change, the conservation of native breeds such as the Romanian Grey Steppe cattle or the Mangalitsa pig gains strategic importance. This paper explores both the decline and the recent revitalization efforts through in situ and ex situ conservation models, integrated into national and European policies. The approach provides a critical understanding of the relationship between agricul ture and genetic diversity, emphasizing its role in the sustainability of agro-ecosystems.
