Sustainable management of the world's livestock genetic diversity is of vital importance to agriculture, food production, rural development and the environment. "The State of the World's Animal Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture" draws on 169 Country Reports, contributions from a number of international organizations, 12 specially commissioned thematic studies and wider expert knowledge to provide the first global assessment of these resources and their management. This "in brief" version, intended for use by decision-makers and the wider public, presents a summary of the key findings of the main report. As well as providing a technical reference document, the country-based preparation of "The State of the World" has led to a process of policy development and a "Global Plan of Action for Animal Genetic Resources", which once adopted, will provide an agenda for action by the international community.--Publisher's description.