For the first time, the early stages of mountain cattle will be revealed based on archaeological data. The researchers focus on cattle bones found in archaeological excavations and the ancient DNA obtained from them. The aim is not just to study genes, but to combine them with what is already known of the history of the northern regions.​

Ancient DNA brings new information about the northern cattle breeds. In collaboration with archaeological osteologist Auli Bläuer, professor Juha Kantanen compares the DNA of ancient cattle with the current Northern Finncattle, Swedish mountain cattle and Norwegian STN cattle. Researcher Maria Kjetså’s work consists of a meticulous check and harmonization of pedigree book entries so that all the information they contain can be entered into modern analysis programs.

“Ancient domestic animals can tell a lot about history and the life of human society that we would not otherwise know about. I wonder if ancient DNA analysis would bring up new issues related to the population or culture of the North. I hope that our cattle research will provide information that can be used to connect cattle to historically significant events”
-Juha Kantanen.

Juha Kantanen Knows the Genes of Northern Survivors

Research on farm animal genes has taken research professor Juha Kantanen around the Northern Hemisphere from Finland to Siberia, China and Tibet. This journey has also led deeper into the history of domestic animals. Precise data and new information about their evolution have given us a better understanding of the adaptations that made these animals the partner which helped humans to survive the harsh conditions of the north.

Nordic mountain cattle are the subject of Kantanen’s research for the cross-disciplinary project “3MC – Nordic Mountain Cattle”, which is led by NordGen. Kantanen is part of a research team consisting of archaeologists, cultural researchers, geneticists, and game developers working together to gather and disseminate knowledge about the common origins and cultural heritage of the Norwegian, Finnish and Swedish mountain cattle breeds. The aim is to raise awareness for a more sustainable use of the now threatened breeds that are at risk of being outcompeted by more commercial breeds.

Maria Kjetså Helps Breeders Make Better Choices to Safeguard Genetic Diversity

Modern genetics and history meet in researcher Maria Kjetså’s work in the interdisciplinary project. Knowing the past and the present on multiple levels can help preserving the native northern breeds for the future.