This publication is the latest in FAO's series of guidelines prepared to support countries in their implementation of the Global Plan of Action for Animal Genetic Resources. It has been endorsed by the Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture. It addresses Strategic Priority Area 1 of the Global Plan of Action – “Characterization, inventory and monitoring of trends and associated risks” and complements the recently published guidelines on molecular genetic characterization and on surveying and monitoring of animal genetic resources.

The objective is to provide advice on how to conduct a well-targeted and cost-effective phenotypic characterization study that contributes to the improvement of animal genetic resources management. An overview of the concepts and approaches that underpin phenotypic characterization is followed by practical guidance on planning and implementing field work, data management and data analysis. The annexes include lists of phenotypic variables for major livestock species, as well as a framework for recording data on breeds’ production environments.