World’s first gene-edited black goat fit for hot days

In a groundbreaking scientific achievement, Chinese researchers at Guangdong Ocean University have successfully created the world’s first gene-edited black goat, designed to withstand high temperatures and humidity. Named ‘Hai Yang’ (Ocean Goat), this innovative breed was born on August 25, 2025, in Zhanjiang, Guangdong province, and marks a significant step forward in addressing the challenges posed by climate change on livestock production. The goat, which underwent editing of the PRLR (prolactin receptor) gene, has demonstrated remarkable resilience to heat stress, maintaining a robust appetite and faster weight gain compared to non-edited counterparts. According to Gan Shangquan, the chief scientist leading the project, Hai Yang has grown to weigh nearly 4,300 grams, outperforming the control group by 300 grams. This development is particularly crucial for southern China and other tropical coastal regions, where heat stress has historically caused significant economic losses in the livestock industry. The research team, which began its work in November 2022, plans to expand the program with additional batches of gene-edited goats expected later this year. The project not only highlights China’s leadership in livestock biological breeding but also offers a sustainable solution to ensure food security in the face of global warming.