A review of conservation and management of the Pantaneiro horse in the Brazilian Pantanal

The Pantaneiro horse is an important social and economic part of the infrastructure of cattle farms in the Brazilian Pantanal. It is of Iberian origin and closely related to other Brazilian breeds, specifically Mangalarga, Mangalarga Machador and Campolina. Physiological studies have shown this horse to be tolerant to long treks and capable of being maintained on natural pastures. The Brazilian Pantaneiro Horse Breeders' Association has registered, to date, approximately 1 600 mares and 300 stallions, the bulk of which are in the Pocone subregion. The horse is considered small and fast. Linear measurements taken at registration are shown to be, in general, highly heritable. The population has a vulnerable status. Characterization studies showed that a combination of genetic and physical characteristics of the Pantaneiro makes it a unique population that must be conserved. Recent trends in selection may threaten the rusticity and adaptability of this valuable genetic resource. In this paper, several research studies are reviewed and areas where research and technical training are needed are highlighted.