VERAZ Operational Group: Digital and genetic innovation for the improvement and authenticity of native cattle breeds

R1. Development of a phenotypic database for cattle breeds. To begin, a digital phenotypic database will be designed, developed, and implemented to allow for the collection, storage, visualization, and analysis of phenotypic data corresponding to native cattle breeds. First, the key phenotypic parameters to be recorded (weight, morphology, color, body structure, etc.) will be identified. Next, the database architecture will be designed to ensure the system is scalable, secure, interoperable, and capable of integrating with existing platforms. Subsequently, a functional software prototype to support the phenotypic database will be developed. Finally, the phenotypic database will be validated by inputting data both during the testing phase and in its final version. The second activity will involve developing a technological solution based on artificial vision to determine the weight of the animals, as the entities involved often lack the necessary technical and financial resources to implement traditional weighing systems.

R2. Interoperability Protocol for Bovine Phenotypic Data. This activity aims to design, develop, and validate an interoperability protocol that enables the effective integration of phenotypic data from different platforms, programs, and devices used by livestock producers. First, the technical and functional requirements that the protocol must meet must be defined. The prototype will include middleware or an integration layer capable of connecting at least two livestock management software programs currently used by the partners. This prototype will undergo functional testing with real data, verifying its ability to synchronize information between systems. Stability, transfer speed, data integrity, and ease of use will be evaluated. Next, the final protocol will be developed, including technical manuals, implementation guides, interoperability standards, and audit procedures. This protocol will be integrated into the mobile application developed in Outcome 1, facilitating user access.

R3. Development of a Mating Planning Module. This activity focuses on the design, development, and implementation of a module that enables livestock farmers to plan mating efficiently, safely, and based on genetic and phenotypic data. First, the relevant genetic and phenotypic parameters for mating planning will be identified (fertility, hardiness, milk or meat production, disease resistance, etc.). Next, the module's functional framework will be designed, including data input and output flows, quality controls, and a decision traceability mechanism. Additionally, a technical module will be developed, integrating artificial intelligence algorithms to compare animals and generate personalized mating recommendations. The module will be field-tested to measure system efficiency by comparing planning time against traditional methods. Furthermore, the module will include results tracking functionalities, allowing for the evaluation of genetic impact.

R4. Promotion of AI with sexed semen (sexing tests, training). This is carried out in two activities. First, donor animals will be selected using the mating planning module developed previously, and semen collection will be coordinated from representative bulls. Genetic analysis of the samples will also be performed to verify their breed authenticity. Subsequently, more than 500 doses of semen will be produced, sexed, and stored, and some of these will be distributed to consortium breeders for field application. Animals born through AI will be monitored, with the goal of achieving a 3% increase in the number of animals born through Artificial Insemination registered in the Herd Book. During the second activity, a training program will be designed and implemented, including the development of technical documentation, explanatory videos, procedural manuals, and the organization of at least three in-person courses.

R5. Identification and Qualification of Breed-Specific Molecular Markers in Fresh Meat. This activity aims to prevent fraud in the labeling of meat with the "100% Native Breed" seal by identifying, validating, and applying breed-specific molecular markers. Hypotheses will be formulated regarding unique genetic sequences for each native breed involved, based on previous studies, genetic databases, and bioinformatics analyses. To validate the specificity and uniqueness of the markers, cross-tests will be performed between native breeds and other commercial breeds, ensuring that the selected markers are exclusive and not shared. Biological samples from both meat and live animals will be used, and from these samples, a genetic verification protocol applicable to fresh meat will be developed, using techniques such as PCR and rapid lateral flow assays. Finally, pilot tests will be conducted with samples verifiable with the "100% Native Breed" seal, calculating the system's success rate and its applicability in real-world marketing contexts.

RD1. Active dissemination of the project to the target audience. Various activities: Updating content on the website and YouTube channel; updating news on the websites of project partners, such as: https://www.youtube.com/@asturianavalles and https://www.facebook.com/aseava.asturianadelosvalles; publishing news from the operational group on the social media of beneficiary members; issuing press releases; and participating in newsletters. Distribution of promotional materials: Participation in livestock shows and fairs, the SERGA-SPREGA International Iberian Congress on Zoogenetic Resources, such as those in Ainsa (Huesca), Mercat del Ram (Vic), FIGAN (Zaragoza), Arkuate (Álava), Cangas de Narcea, CONFEVAP (Pozoblanco), Semana Verde (Silleda), and the Retinta Breed Days at the Zafra International Livestock Fair. FEGASUR – Jerez de la Frontera Livestock Fair. AGROGANADERA – Trujillo Livestock Fair. Production of promotional materials: Preparation of posters, brochures, banners, and informational videos, as outlined in the project application.

RD2. Target Audience Participation in the Results. Several activities will be carried out. Development of specific guides/manuals: Transmedia Communication and Press will produce guides and manuals. Production of specific videos: Transmedia Communication and Press will produce videos. Workshops and seminars: Workshops and seminars will be held for the presentation of the project results by members of the operational group. Publication in specialized journals: Publication in journals related to the agricultural, livestock, and food sectors. This will reach the target audience: project partners and collaborators, stakeholders in the cattle and related sectors; livestock farmers; veterinarians and the animal health sector; media outlets and government agencies; and the general public. As the objective is the participation of the target audience in the results, this dissemination will take place at the beginning of the project to publicize its creation and implementation, as well as throughout the rest of the project to disseminate all activities and news.

RD3. Dissemination to the General Public. To ensure that the project's progress and results reach the general public clearly and accessibly, a continuous, multi-channel communication plan will be developed. The main planned actions include: Social Media Posting: publishing results on the participants' social media accounts. Publications will also be prepared for journals: writing articles for publication in bovine and veterinary sector journals. Dissemination will also be carried out through the websites of project members, as well as through the social media accounts of beneficiaries and partner organizations. As with the previous result, these actions will be carried out continuously throughout the project's duration: initially to publicize the creation and launch of the operational group, and subsequently to report on each activity, technical advance, and relevant news as it arises.