Developing a Breed-Specific Genetic Improvement Scheme for Noire de Thibar Sheep in Tunisia: From Field Performance Records to Selection Decisions

Abstract The Noire de Thibar is a Tunisian composite sheep breed developed for meat production in intensive and semi-intensive systems. It originated in the Thibar region from crossing and selection involving Merinos d’Arles and Algerian thin-tailed sheep. Selection for a uniform black coat helped reduce photosensitive reactions in areas where toxic Hypericum species occur. Officially recognized in 1945, the breed remains a distinctive Tunisian animal genetic resource. This educational case adapts published research, field reports and author-supplied teaching material into a step-by-step learning tool. It shows how animal identification, growth recording, artificial insemination, breeder organization and automated data entry can support a practical breed-specific improvement scheme. The Office de l’Elevage et des Paturages (OEP) database contained 39,979 lambs recorded from 2010 to 2019 across 6 governorates, 39 farms and 5 production sectors. Trait records were edited using a +/−2 standard-deviation rule, reducing usable observations by about 20% and illustrating why data quality must precede genetic evaluation. The case study explains why raw weights should not be used alone for selection. Sex-birth type, year, location, lambing season and ewe age influence growth and must be considered before breeding values are predicted. The case also discusses scheme limitations, the flow of information from recording to dissemination, and the future role of genomic, digital and AI-assisted breeding tools. The central lesson is that sustainable improvement in local breeds requires statistical rigor, reliable field data and durable breeder governance. Information © The Authors 2026