Inbreeding vs Linebreeding: Risks and Rewards for Local Herds

Farmers Magazine | 23.02.2026 16:46
South African livestock farmers face constant pressure to improve herd quality while maintaining adaptability to local conditions. You need animals that reproduce efficiently, grow consistently, and handle environmental stress without high input costs. Breeding strategy plays a direct role in achieving this balance. Inbreeding and linebreeding are two closely related approaches that can shape your herd’s genetics over time. Each method offers clear benefits but also carries real risks if applied without control. Understanding how these systems work helps you make better breeding decisions and avoid long term losses.