Editorial: Characterization of local farm animal genetic diversity for better resource use and climate change adaptation

Local farm animal genetic resources play a central role in sustaining food security, enhancing production efficiency, and supporting the resilience of agricultural systems. As climate change intensifies and production environments become increasingly variable, characterizing the genetic diversity embedded in local breeds has become essential for informed management, conservation, and breeding strategies. This Research Topic brings together four original research articles that collectively advance our understanding of genomic diversity, adaptive traits, and population structure in cattle, sheep, and pigs across diverse production landscapes. By integrating genomic analyses with production and environmental contexts, these studies highlight the adaptive potential of local breeds and provide actionable insights for their sustainable use and conservation.In the first article, Milia et al. investigate shared genomic regions among local cattle breeds from Sardinia. By applying high-resolution genomic tools, the authors identify conserved haplotypes and signatures of selection that provide new insights into historical connections and adaptive potential within insular bovine populations. Their work highlights the value of regional genetic resources for long-term breeding and conservation planning.The contribution by Fetene et al. presents a qualitative and quantitative characterization of the Surma cattle population in the Bench Maji Zone of Southwest Ethiopia. Through an integrated approach combining phenotypic measurements and field-based assessments, the authors document the unique morphological and adaptive traits of this indigenous breed. Their findings highlight the vital role of community-based conservation and, and at the same time, reinforce the need to protect pastoral production systems that sustain these valuable genetic resources.In the third article, Punuru et al. analyze genetic diversity in semi-arid sheep populations in Andhra Pradesh India using microsatellite markers. The study provides robust estimates of genetic variability, including within-and between-population variability of Andhra Pradesh local sheep populations and identifies management factors shaping current structures. High diversity was observed alongside admixture and endogamy, with distinct differentiation among populations. These results carry practical implications for breeding programs seeking to enhance productivity while retaining locally adapted traits crucial for dryland environments.Finally, Škorput et al. examine the effect of African swine fever on genetic diversity within the Black Slavonian pig. By evaluating population parameters before and after disease outbreaks, the authors demonstrate the vulnerability of small local breeds to epidemic events and emphasize the need for proactive genetic monitoring and conservation frameworks.Collectively, the studies in this special issue underscore the dynamic interactions between genetics, management, environment, and resilience in livestock systems. They demonstrate that characterizing local animal genetic diversity is not only a scientific endeavor but also a cornerstone of sustainable agriculture, climate change adaptation, and cultural heritage preservation. We extend our sincere thanks to all authors and reviewers for their valuable contributions and hope this Research Topic will inspire further collaborative work aimed at safeguarding the genetic resources that underpin global livestock production.EN: Writing -original draft, Writing -review & editing. LHD and RR: Writing -review & editing.