The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and the Association of Breeders of Pasiega Group Cattle have formalized an agreement for the custody of genetic material from the Pasiega breed. This accord, published on September 8, 2026, establishes an initial 15-year period to maintain these samples at the National Animal Germplasm Bank, situated at the CENSYRA in Colmenar Viejo.
The primary objective is to ensure the long-term conservation of the genetic resources of this native breed, originating from Cantabria and classified as endangered. The bank serves as a safety reserve, providing genetic material for future breeding and conservation programs, and to maintain population diversity.
The choice of Colmenar Viejo as the custody center is not due to a particular presence of the breed in the area, but because the CENSYRA houses this national facility dedicated to preserving the germplasm of various Spanish livestock breeds.
The Pasiega breed, historically linked to the Cantabrian valleys and primarily dairy-aptitude, has experienced a significant population decline due to changes in livestock farming and the expansion of other breeds. The current breeding program aims for its reconstruction and conservation.
The agreement details the process for depositing and safeguarding the genetic material. The Breeders' Association will provide the necessary technical personnel for sample selection and transport, while the Ministry of Agriculture will coordinate and supervise custody and any potential return. The genetic material is jointly owned by the association and the Government of Cantabria.
Genetic conservation is crucial for breeds with small populations. Maintaining reproductive material can be vital for recovering specific genetic traits or increasing population diversity, especially in anticipation of future issues, without implying the breed is extinct.
This initiative highlights the work of the CENSYRA in Colmenar Viejo in the selection, reproduction, and conservation of livestock breeds nationwide. The bank, which already safeguards material from various breeds, expands its reserve with the inclusion of the Pasiega.
The agreement, valid for 15 years with possible extensions, does not involve financial compensation for the association or a spending commitment from the Ministry. It aligns with Spanish regulations requiring breeder associations to have conservation mechanisms and send backup copies to the national bank.
“"The genetic heritage of a breed cannot be easily recovered once lost. Preserving samples allows for a reserve that can complement the work done by breeders and associations responsible for the breeding program."
For Colmenar Viejo, this news underscores the importance of its facilities in conserving livestock genetic resources across the country, adding the Pasiega breed's material to its reserve.
