Characterisation and conservation of genetic diversity between breeds

The different types and measures of genetic diversity and the different tools to analyze it in a subdivided population are reviewed. Emphasis is put on the classical genetic analysis coming from population genetics and on the more recent Weitzman’s approach. The latter is questioned because it ignores within population genetic diversity. We discuss different reasons to emphasize either within or between breed variation and the methodology to establish some compromise. Finally, some directions of future research are presented.