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Genetics and molecular biology2011; 34(1); 68-76; doi: 10.1590/S1415-47572010005000113

Genetic variability in the Skyros pony and its relationship with other Greek and foreign horse breeds.

Abstract: In Greece, seven native horse breeds have been identified so far. Among these, the Skyros pony is outstanding through having a distinct phenotype. In the present study, the aim was to assess genetic diversity in this breed, by using different types of genetic loci and available genealogical information. Its relationships with the other Greek, as well as foreign, domestic breeds were also investigated. Through microsatellite and pedigree analysis it appeared that the Skyros presented a similar level of genetic diversity to the other European breeds. Nevertheless, comparisons between DNA-based and pedigree-based results revealed that a loss of genetic diversity had probably already occurred before the beginning of breed registration. Tests indicated the possible existence of a recent bottleneck in two of the three main herds of Skyros pony. Nonetheless, relatively high levels of heterozygosity and Polymorphism Information Content indicated sufficient residual genetic variability, probably useful in planning future strategies for breed conservation. Three other Greek breeds were also analyzed. A comparison of these with domestic breeds elsewhere, revealed the closest relationships to be with the Middle Eastern types, whereas the Skyros itself remained isolated, without any close relationship, whatsoever.
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Publication Date: 2011-03-01 PubMed ID: 21637546PubMed Central: PMC3085377DOI: 10.1590/S1415-47572010005000113Google Scholar: Lookup
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Summary

This research summary has been generated with artificial intelligence and may contain errors and omissions. Refer to the original study to confirm details provided. Submit correction.

This research studies the genetic diversity of the Skyros pony breed from Greece. The study found that this breed has undergone a loss of genetic diversity, but still maintains a sufficient level of genetic variability, and is genetically distinct from other Greek and global horse breeds.

Research aim and methods

  • This study aimed to examine the genetic diversity in the Skyros pony, which is one of the seven native horse breeds in Greece, and distinctly unique in its physical features.
  • The researchers compared DNA samples from the Skyros pony with other Greek and foreign horse breeds using microsatellite and pedigree analysis.
  • They also analysed genealogical information, looking for common ancestors and patterns of inheritance.

Results and findings

  • The results showed the Skyros pony to have a similar level of genetic diversity as other European horse breeds.
  • However, the comparison of DNA-based and pedigree-based data suggested that the Skyros pony likely suffered a loss of genetic diversity before official breed registration started.
  • Tests found evidence of a recent bottleneck, or reduction in genetic diversity, in two of the three main herds of Skyros ponies.
    This creates a concern for the future sustainability of the breed.
  • Despite these issues, the breed still exhibited high levels of heterozygosity and polymorphism information content, indicating enough residual genetic variability which is important for future breeding strategies and conservation of the breed.

Comparison with other Greek and global breeds

  • Three other Greek horse breeds were also examined as part of the study.
  • Analysis of these breeds showed their closest genetic relationships are with Middle Eastern horse breeds.
  • However, the Skyros pony distinctly lacked any close genetic relationship with other breeds, underscoring its unique genetic make-up.

Implications of the study

  • The results of this study provide valuable information for conservation and breeding strategies, particularly for maintaining the genetic health of the Skyros pony breed.
  • The findings also contribute to the broader body of literature concerning genetic diversity in horse breeds.

Cite This Article

APA
Bömcke E, Gengler N, Cothran EG. (2011). Genetic variability in the Skyros pony and its relationship with other Greek and foreign horse breeds. Genet Mol Biol, 34(1), 68-76. https://doi.org/10.1590/S1415-47572010005000113

Publication

Genetics and molecular biology
ISSN: 1678-4685
NlmUniqueID: 100883590
Country: Brazil
Language: English
Volume: 34
Issue: 1
Pages: 68-76

Researcher Affiliations

Bömcke, Elisabeth
  • Animal Science Unit, Gembloux Agricultural University, Gembloux, Belgium.
Gengler, Nicolas
    Cothran, E Gus

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