An opportunity to accelerate Rumen Microbial Genomics (RMG) research through a global network approach was identified as a priority area by the Livestock Research Group of the Global Research Alliance (the Alliance) to accelerate research into CH4 mitigation and rumen adaptation technologies. With funding from the New Zealand Government, a Rumen Microbial Genomics Network workshop was held in Palmerston North, New Zealand (February 2011), which endorsed the formation of a RMG Network. The New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries in its support of the Alliance has provided funding to establish the Network.
The RMG Network is a global collaborative network of researchers with a common set of principles and guidelines in rumen microbial genomics to underpin the development of CH4 mitigation and rumen adaptation technologies.
The Network's efforts are focused on generating a shared comprehensive data resource that will enable investigators to characterize the relationship between the composition of the rumen microbiome (or of parts of the rumen microbiome) and the efficient bioconversion of fibrous feedstuffs, leading to a more environmentally acceptable production of nutritious foods in all parts of the world.