Foot and Mouth Disease Directive
Definition of “Farm Animal Genetic Resources” to meet requirements under the new EU foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) Directive
Article 15 of the new FMD Directive (2003/85/EC) allows special measures to be applied for the conservation of “farm animal genetic resources” in the event of an FMD outbreak on premises that are identified in advance. The Directive places a responsibility on Member States to establish lists of holdings where animals are kept for purposes related to the conservation of animals that are indispensable for the survival of that breed (Farm Animal Genetic Resources).
Depending on the circumstances, and veterinary and epidemiological advice at the time, the registered breeding nucleus may then benefit from special provisions.
A consultation exercise, inviting comments on the proposals for defining groups of animals for which special measures can be taken during a disease outbreak closed on 3 November 2003.
Following this consultation exercise, a list
of susceptible ‘rare breeds’ 
(65 KB) has now been agreed and the following definition for a “breeding
nucleus” for each species:
- Cattle: 8 cows + bull (or AI)
- Goats: 6 females + male
- Pigs: 3 sows + boar (or AI)
- Sheep: 16 ewes + ram
This will enable us to compile a register of holdings which contain breeding nuclei of genetically valuable stock which may qualify for special measures in the event of an outbreak.
Information on the registration process will be publicised on the website once arrangements have been finalised.
FMD Science & General Policy Team
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Page last modified:
14 January, 2008