A CONSIDERATION OF THE GENETIC-ASPECTS OF SOME CURRENT PRACTICES IN THOROUGHBRED HORSE BREEDING

The genetic problems involved in Thoroughbred breeding are reviewed. F irst, an historical and sociological analysis highlights the following questions. Is performance selection, the great historical contributio n of Thoroughbred breeding, still effective? Is breed purity a myth or a technically effective reality? What about inbreeding? What are the respective influences of the mare and stallion? Second, the answers pu t forth by the scientific community are examined. Finally, considerati on is given to future prospects and to the progress required for genet ic management in an industry where the concepts currently in use are v ery outdated.