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Aloe vera has been used since ancient times for cosmetics and medicinal uses. In the present study, sixty genotypes were collected from different agro-climatic zones to evaluate genetic variation using amplified fragment length polymorphism markers. A total of ten primer combinations were used, which generated a total of 16,578 fragments from 419 loci with an average of 41.9 loci per primer. The resolving power of the primers ranged from 24.86 to 87.20 with an average of 55.23 and polymorphic information content ranged from 0.92 to 0.98 with an average of 0.95. Clustering pattern and principal coordinate analysis revealed a considerable genetic variability among the selected genotypes. The population genetic analysis was carried out in terms of some essential genetic diversity parameters viz., Na, Ne, H, I, NPL, PPL, Hs, Ht, Nm, and Gst, which indicated a high degree of genetic diversity. Analysis of molecular variance revealed 7.46% genetic variation among the groups and 91.46% among genotypes. The degree of freedom and variance component observed were 2 and 3.496, respectively, among the groups and 57 and 42.858, among the genotypes. Population structure analysis assumes three populations that are consistent with an initial grouping of the genotypes based on their geographical regions. Furthermore, it is concluded that the AFLP markers were found an ideal tool for the genetic diversity in Aloe vera because it is a highly reproducible, highly polymorphic, high throughput, and cost-effective method. Observed results can be used for proper maintenance, validation, and effective utilization of Aloe vera genotypes.

Objective: In this study, we aimed to investigate the recent changes such as allele frequencies and total probability of exclusion (PE) in Thoroughbred horses in Korea using short tandem repeat (STR) parentage panels between 2006 and 2016.Methods: The genotype was provided for 5,988 horse samples with 15 microsatellite markers (AHT4, AHT5, ASB2, ASB17, ASB23, CA425, HMS1, HMS2, HMS3, HMS6, HMS7, HTG4, HTG10, LEX3 and VHL20).Results: In our study, the observed number of alleles per locus ranged from 3 (HMS1) to 9 (ASB17) in 2006 and 4 (HMS1) to 9 (ASB2) in 2016, with a mean value of 6.28 and 6.40, respectively. Of the 15 markers, HMS2, HTG4, and CA425 loci had relatively low polymorphism information content (

Trans-oceanic movement, stocking, and subsequent establishment of Pacific pink salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha) into the Atlantic White Sea area has resulted in their spreading further across the northern Atlantic, with spawning being reported in a number of regions within this area. Such expansions of non-native species bring potential risks to the ecosystems in question. It has not yet been established if the spawning events of pink salmon observed are the result of self-sustaining populations in these areas, or are due to repeated invasions of strayers from the White Sea stocks. In 2017 pink salmon were observed in a number of Scottish rivers in historically large numbers. This study set out to examine genetic variation in these fish and compare this to fish in Pacific founder regions and the White Sea translocated populations. A total of 286 samples from Scotland, the Atlantic White Sea, the Pacific Okhotsk region, and Northern Pacific Bering Sea were screened using a 1018 bp sequenced region of the Cytochrome b mtDNA gene and 205 of these samples for 13 microsatellites. Significant bottleneck and founder effects were observed in the White Sea stocks in both mitochondrial and nuclear DNA, including loss of diversity and changes in haplotype and allele proportions. Scottish fish were indistinguishable from White Sea populations and as such it was not possible to determine if the fish were strayers from this region or returning fish from previous spawning events in Scotland. Therefore, while the fish caught in Scotland have their origins in the White Sea population, it may not be easy to determine whether self-sustaining populations have, or are becoming, established in the UK using genetic analysis and other techniques may need to be employed. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Purpose Sorghum is an important cereal crop, cultivated for food, fodder and biofuel. Mutation breeding techniques are used to create genetic variability for qualitative and quantitative traits in crop plants. The purpose of this study was to create induced variability and estimate mutagenic effectiveness and efficiency of physical and chemical mutagens in two sorghum cultivars. Materials and methods Gamma rays (100, 200, 300 and 400 Gy, Co60 source, Bhabha Atomic Research Center, Mumbai, India), ethyl methane sulphonate (0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, and 0.4% EMS, Sigma-Aldrich, India) and their combinations were used to mutagenize 296B (rainy season) and Parbhani moti (post-rainy) cultivars. Morphological and yield traits were analyzed for enhanced variability in qualitative and quantitative traits across M2 and M3 generations. Results Based on the mutagenic sensitivity, lethal dose at 50% survivability (LD50) for both the genotypes was found to be 269-281 Gy in case of gamma rays and 0.32-0.33% for EMS. Based on reduced germination and survivability, mutagenic sensitivity was dose dependent and genotype independent. High frequency of chlorophyll mutations (albino, xantha, viridis, variegated and chlorine) were linearly correlated with dose in both the genotypes. Among the favorable mutants, dwarf and brown midrib were isolated from Parbhani moti population, which could be used in the cross breeding programs. A combined treatment, 100Gy +0.1% EMS showed high mutagenic effectiveness and efficiency. Enhanced genetic variation for quantitative traits as measured by wide range values and coefficient of variation was attributed to the effect of physical and chemical mutagens. Early flowering, high grain yield (24-49% increase over control) were identified in M2 and validated in M3 generation in both genotypes. Conclusions This study has revealed wide genetic variability and better effectiveness and efficiency of the physical (300 Gy) and chemical mutagens (0.2%) and their combination (200 Gy+ 0.2%) across two sorghum genotypes. Significant correlations identified between quantitative traits will help in better selection in the segregating generations.

Wheat is a staple food for a large part of the world's population and faces a continuous demand for increased productivity. The presence of genetic variability allows the success in developing cultivars with higher yield. The understanding of the genetic variability available is crucial for their effective use in breeding programs. Inheritance of wheat yield components is complex, due to polygenic control and the strong influence of the environment. Therefore, an accurate heritability estimation can accelerate the selection gains towards increasing wheat yield. Thus, this study aimed to characterize agronomic traits related to yield in a collection of 99 wheat accessions used in Brazil. In addition, the heritability of these traits was estimated. The studied accessions showed variability for yield, which can be explained by the presence of variability in most yield components. Cluster analysis showed that there is variability in wheat genotypes, however, the introduction of new sources of variability in crossing blocks or the induction of mutations is suggested. The broad-sense heritability for grain yield was considered high, as well as for most of the studied agronomic traits, suggesting that it is possible to obtain genetic gain with selection in this environment. However, for greater accuracy, genetic gain values should be estimated and considered when designing selection strategies. Hectoliter weight showed low heritability, demonstrating the complexity of selection for this trait. In summary, this study demonstrates the presence of genetic variability and high heritability for agronomic traits, enabling genetic gain in breeding programs using these wheat accessions.

The common leopard (Panthera pardus fusca), which persists in most of its historic range, is experiencing steady population decline due to habitat loss, anthrophonic disturbances, illegal poaching for their body parts, and retaliatory killings in response to the leopard-human conflicts. We analysed 143 scats samples and identified 32 unique leopards following a selected panel of seven loci with cumulative PID sibs 5.30E−04. We observed moderate genetic diversity at nuclear (Ho = 0.600 ± 0.06) and mitochondrial markers (Hd = 0.569 ± 0.009; π = 0.001 ± 0.0002) and found sub-structuring in the leopard population at Uttarkashi, Western Himalayas. The present study exhibits the utility of non-invasive genetics in monitoring the leopard population and paves the path to investigate population genetic parameters in further studies.

Objectives: This present study aims to understand the landscape structures as well as the environmental (climatic) factors influencing the genetic diversity of fly populations in the agroecological area of Niayes. Methodology and results: Landscape composition of different mango orchards of different typologies were determined after drone mapping and fly samples carried out on Kent mangoes. The molecular biology process carried out on about fifty individuals made it possible to obtain sequences of the Cytochrome oxidase I. The results revealed a high genetic diversity and structuring in the populations of flies dependent on single-variety orchards and in contrast a very low diversity in diversified orchards. The genetic diversity appears closely linked to the landscape composition of orchards. Orchards with the most diverse landscapes have populations of B. dorsalis with lower diversity and genetic structure.Conclusions and application of findings: The results made it possible to objectively understand the diversity of the landscape associated with the different mango production systems in relation to the genetic variability of the populations of B. dorsalis in the Niayes area. Genetic analyses revealed a low level of polymorphism, diversity and genetic structuring of the fly population subservient to the diversified orchard of Carmel and a greater diversity and polymorphism in the population of Notto (monovarietal orchard). A strong negative correlation is noted between the landscape diversity and the genetic diversity of the populations of B. dorsalis underpinning a maintenance of the populations at the level of the orchards diversified in low numbers from one mango production season to another and seasonal appearances in single-variety industrial orchards with populations from elsewhere. This study provides new elements which, if confirmed by larger-scale studies, would make it possible to refine the fly control techniques currently applied.

Physiology is crucial for the survival of invasive species in new environments. Yet, new climatic conditions and the limited genetic variation found within many invasive populations may influence physiological responses to new environmental conditions. Here, we studied the case of the delicate skinks (Lampropholis delicata) invading Lord Howe Island (LHI), Australia. On LHI, the climate is different from the mainland source of the skinks, and independent introduction events generated invasive populations with distinct genetic backgrounds. To understand how climate and genetic background may shape physiological responses along biological invasions, we compared the physiological traits of a source and two invasive (single-haplotype and multi-haplotype) populations of the delicate skink. For each population, we quantified physiological traits related to metabolism, sprint speed, and thermal physiology. We found that, for most physiological traits analysed, population history did not influence the ecophysiology of delicate skinks. However, invasive populations showed higher maximum speed than the source population, which indicates that locomotor performance might be a trait under selection during biological invasions. As well, the invasive population with a single haplotype was less cold-tolerant than the multi-haplotype and source populations. Our results suggest that limited genetic variability and climate may influence physiological responses of invasive organisms in novel environments. Incorporating the interplay between genetic and physiological responses into models predicting species invasions can result in more accurate understanding of the potential habitats those species can occupy.

The genetic structure of the population of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum was analyzed using 238 individuals collected from different hosts. Individuals were characterized for microsatellite genotypes and mycelial compatibility groups (MCGs). A total of 22 MCGs and 64 multilocus lineages (MLLs) were identified. There was a close relationship between the MCGs and MLLs, but there was no association between MLLs and hosts or regions. At least 39 MCGs are present in Brazil, and 68.5% of the isolates were assigned to either MCG 1 or MCG 2. Eight new MCGs were found. Seven genetic groups were identified and associated with MCGs. Most genetic variation (70.0%) was because of differences among MCGs. High values of estimates of linkage disequilibrium among loci were more frequent in the total population (all MCGs). By contrast, there was evidence of random mating in subpopulations defined by MCGs 1 and 2. Additionally, there was evidence of outcrossing in the population of S. sclerotiorum in Brazil. The population was structured by MCGs; lineages originating from asexual reproduction or selfing prevail and are widely distributed in space, are persistent in time, and affect many hosts, but there is evidence of some degree of outcrossing, which may lead to a more genetically variable population in the future.

Ethiopia is the center of origin and diversity for Arabica coffee with high morphological diversity between accessions as compared to commercial cultivars. Coffee germplasm collection and molecular characterization are crucial steps towards its conservation, breeding, and development of superior genotypes for various end uses. Hence, this study was initiated with the objective of studying the genetic diversity of Coffea arabica accessions collected from different regions of Ethiopia, using SSR markers. A total of 20 SSR markers were used to genotype 86 accessions and produced a total of 112 alleles, with an average of 5.6 alleles per locus. All the loci across the entire populations were found to be highly polymorphic with a mean of 0.6 PIC value. Average observed heterozygosity and allelic richness across all populations ranged from 0.22 to 0.27 and 3.52–4.26, with a mean of 2.43 and 3.97, respectively. AMOVA showed high variation within population based on geographical origin. The smaller Fst (0.037) observed indicates the presence of lower population genetic differentiation as a result of higher gene flow (Nm = 2.45) across populations and the lowest mean genetic distance (0.21) observed between populations. The UPGMA, PCoA, and structure analysis poorly grouped the individuals into distinct clusters indicating the presence of population admixture. The observed higher genetic variability in all populations indicates that the country has huge coffee genetic diversity which can be used for future coffee improvement. Our results revealed an unexploited highly diverse genetic resource particularly from Omo, Ilubabor, and Benchi Maji that should be considered in future coffee breeding program and germplasm conservation.

Eastern Africa is currently infested with dodders—highly invasive vines that threaten agriculture and biodiversity. We describe historical and ecological factors that have potentially shaped dodder invasion in this region. Our results reveal high levels of genetic diversity within dodder populations, which could enhance their ability to colonize new niches. Further, we identify two main population clusters in eastern and western Kenya, a pattern that is mirrored in an established invader (Cuscuta campestris) and a recent introduction (C. reflexa). Immediate control strategies are needed to limit deliberate or inadvertent seed/vine dispersal, eradicate existing populations, and monitor influx of propagules. Summary: Invasion by dodder (Cuscuta spp.), holo-parasitic plants of the Convolvulaceae family, has recently surged in Eastern Africa. Particularly, colonization by two species, Cuscuta campestris and Cuscuta reflexa that have a broad host range and rapid invasiveness, has escalated. We examined the first assessment of genetic diversity of these invasive species in Kenya to inform subsequent management practices. A comparative phylogeographic analysis, based on chloroplast and nuclear ribosomal DNA, was performed to determine genetic diversities, population structure, and isolation of C. campestris and C. reflexa in Kenya. Results reveal high genetic variation in both species within populations across localities. C. campestris had more haplotypes and higher gene diversity (P =.0001) and heterozygosity (P =.004) than C. reflexa. Both species were geographically separated, evidenced by two distinct lineages that mostly corresponded to localities east and west of Kenya. Correlation between genetic and geographic distances revealed evidence of isolation by distance (IBD). We attribute these genetic variation patterns to establishment via similar invasion routes for the studied Cuscuta spp. and suggest that Cuscuta invasion in Kenya is in the early stages of establishment. Rapid eradication is urgently needed to prevent shifts to economically important hosts, which would have devastating impacts. We recommend (i) development of targeted efforts to curb new introductions to limit the potential for genetic variability and adaptation, (ii) prevention of seed and vine dispersal from current incursions, and (iii) complete eradication of existing populations where this is feasible.

Lucilia sericata is a medical and veterinary important insect species because its larvae feed on tissues of vertebrates including humans. Very few microsatellite makers have been reported from the species to illuminate its genetic variability and population genetic structure. In this study, L. sericata samples were collected from four different localities in Korea to develop the microsatellite markers to provide basic information on the genetic variability and population genetic structure in Korea of this species. In total, ten new microsatellite markers were sequenced and analyzed. Genetic diversity was performed using these microsatellite markers. The observed heterozygosity varied from 0.205 to 0.824, with an average of 0.546. The expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.579 to 0.886, with an average of 0.804. PIC value varied from 0.553 to 0.876. The markers developed in the present study are expected as informative for estimating genetic diversity of L. sericata.

The analysis of variability of four intergenic spacers of chloroplast DNA in the endangered closely related species of junipers — Juniperus excelsa, J. polycarpos, and J. foetidissima in the northern limits of their distribution—. Caucasus and Crimea was performed. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) showed a high degree of differentiation of the three taxa (GCT = 0.9905, P < 0.0001). Seven haplotypes have been identified in total. The population of J. foetidissima from Armenia is characterized by high genetic diversity (H = 0.442); the genetic diversity was smaller in J. excelsa (H = 0.200); the J. polycarpos populations were found to be monomorphic. The studied samples, together with those included in the analysis from GenBank from the main part of the range, formed three clades corresponding to three taxa, with high statistical support.

Investigation of genetic variability and population relationship of 50 accessions of the apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) was carried out using ISSR markers. The results revealed that the number of alleles per locus varied from 4 to 8 with a mean value of 6.75, and the mean effective number of alleles (Ne) per locus was 1.54. Similarly, the polymorphic information content (PIC) values ranged from 0.464 to 0.424, with a mean value of 0.424. The mean heterozygosity, marker index, resolving power, and effective multiplex ratio (EMR) ranged from 0.001 to 0.002, 0.01–0.06, 1.76–3.84, and 1–4.12. The dendrogram clustered genotypes into two main clades based on their origins. The population structure revealed two sub-populations with some admixtures. The average expected heterozygosity and population differentiation within two sub-populations was 0.1428 and 0.216, respectively. The results outcome reveals that the four ISSR markers comprehensively separated the indigenous germplasm from the exotic germplasm. The genetic divergence within indigenous genotypes and exotic genotypes could allow for future insights into apricot breeding programs.

Begomoviruses have circular, single-stranded DNA genomes encapsidated into twinned quasi-icosahedral particles and are transmitted by whiteflies of the Bemisia tabaci sibling group. Begomoviruses infect cultivated and non-cultivated plants, causing great losses in economically important crops worldwide. To better understand the genetic diversity of begomoviruses infecting the non-cultivated host Cnidoscolus urens, leaf samples exhibiting virus-like symptoms were collected in different localities in the state of Alagoas, Brazil, during 2015 and 2016. Forty-two complete DNA-A sequences were cloned and sequenced by the Sanger method. Based on nucleotide sequence comparisons, the 42 new isolates were identified as the bipartite begomovirus cnidoscolus mosaic leaf deformation virus (CnMLDV). The CnMLDV isolates were clustered in two phylogenetic groups (clusters I and II) corresponding to their sampling areas, and the high value of Wright’s F fixation index observed for the DNA-A sequences suggests population structuring. At least seven independent intraspecies recombination events were predicted among CnMLDV isolates, with recombination breakpoints located in the common region (CR) and in the CP and Rep genes. Also, a high per site nucleotide diversity (π) was observed for CnMLDV isolates, with CP being significantly more variable than Rep. Despite the high genetic variability, strong negative or purifying selection was identified as the main selective force acting upon CP and Rep.

Brown planthopper biotype 1, 2, 3 and a representative field population are required for resistance screening of promising rice lines in Indonesia, but the current biotype stocks has shown deviation in virulence patterns. The objectives of this study were to develop a set of brown planthopper populations with differential virulence and to investigate their genetic variability using SSR marker. Females originated from two field populations were selected on variety Mudgo (carries Bph1 gene) or ASD7 (bph2 gene) using honeydew excretion as the virulence parameter. Selection cycles resulted in population T, M, A, and R, which was raised and adapted on variety TN1 (carries no Bph gene), Mudgo, ASD7, and Rathu Heenathi (Bph3, Bph17), respectively. Population R was the most virulent as expected and can be used to represent a field population, but the remaining populations still showed high virulence level. AMOVA and PCoA results based on analysis with 38 SSR primer pairs revealed partial genetic separation among populations, with population R was the most genetically distant from the remaining populations. The desired virulence character of the remaining populations is expected could be achieved after further selection and prolonged adaptation on their respective hosts.

The spiralling whitefly, Aleurodicus dispersus Russell (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae), has a wide range of anatomy, physiology, behaviour, and ecology depending on the host plant. This research looked at the genetic variations between A. dispersus populations on two separate host plants (Citrus aurantifolia and Ocimum gratissimum). The existence of host-related genetic variation in A. dispersus populations was determined using Rapid Amplification of Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. Our findings revealed that the A. dispersus populations on the two host plants had a considerable amount of genetic divergence. The spiralling whiteflies on the adaxial part of Citrus aurantifolia were genetically distinct from those on the abaxial part of the same plants. Various population genetic parameters such as heterozygosity, Nei's genetic gap, and fixation indices (FST) revealed that spiralling whitefly populations vary genetically, which may be attributable to spiralling whitefly populations originating from multiple sources. These findings also have consequences for the invasive pest's quarantine safety strategy.

Background Efficient breeding programs are difficult to implement in honeybees due to their biological specificities (polyandry and haplo-diploidy) and complexity of the traits of interest, with performances being measured at the colony scale and resulting from the joint effects of tens of thousands of workers (called direct effects) and of the queen (called maternal effects). We implemented a Monte Carlo simulation program of a breeding plan designed specifically for Apis mellifera’s populations to assess the impact of polyandry versus monoandry on colony performance, inbreeding level and genetic gain depending on the individual selection strategy considered, i.e. complete mass selection or within-family (maternal lines) selection. We simulated several scenarios with different parameter setups by varying initial genetic variances and correlations between direct and maternal effects, the selection strategy and the polyandry level. Selection was performed on colony phenotypes. Results All scenarios showed strong increases in direct breeding values of queens after 20 years of selection. Monoandry led to significantly higher direct than maternal genetic gains, especially when a negative correlation between direct and maternal effects was simulated. However, the relative increase in these genetic gains depended also on their initial genetic variability and on the selection strategy. When polyandry was simulated, the results were very similar with either 8 or 16 drones mated to each queen. Across scenarios, polyandrous mating resulted in equivalent or higher gains in performance than monoandrous mating, but with considerably lower inbreeding rates. Mass selection conferred a ~ 20% increase in performance compared to within-family selection, but was also accompanied by a strong increase in inbreeding levels (25 to 50% higher). Conclusions Our study is the first to compare the long-term effects of polyandrous versus monoandrous mating in honeybee breeding. The latter is an emergent strategy to improve specific traits, such as resistance to varroa, which can be difficult or expensive to phenotype. However, if used during several generations in a closed population, monoandrous mating increases the inbreeding level of queens much more than polyandrous mating, which is a strong limitation of this strategy.

BackgroundChinese grass shrimp (Palaemonetes sinensis) is an important species widely distributed throughout China, which is ecologically relevant and possesses ornamental and economic value. These organisms have experienced a sharp decline in population due to overfishing. Therefore interest inP. sinensisaquaculture has risen in an effort to alleviate fishing pressure on wild populations. Therefore, we investigated the genetic diversity and variation ofP. sinensisto verify the accuracy of previous research results, as well as to assess the risk of diversity decline in wild populations and provide data for artificial breeding.MethodsPalaemonetes sinensisspecimens from seven locations were collected and their genetic variability was assessed based on mitochondrialCOIgene segments. DNA sequence polymorphisms for each population were estimated using DNASP 6.12. The demographic history and genetic variation were evaluated using Arlequin 3.11. At last, the pairwise genetic distance (Ds) values and dendrograms were constructed with the MEGA 11 software package.ResultsOur study obtained sequences from 325 individuals, and 41 haplotypes were identified among the populations. The haplotype diversity (Hd) and nucleotide diversity (π) indices ranged from 0.244 ± 0.083 to 0.790 ± 0.048 and from 0.0004 ± 0.0001 to 0.0028 ± 0.0006, respectively. Haplotype network analyses identified haplotype Hap_1 as a potential maternal ancestral haplotype for the studied populations. AMOVA results indicated that genetic variations mainly occurred within populations (73.07%). Moreover, according to the maximum variation among groups (FCT), analysis of molecular variance using the optimal two-group scheme indicated that the maximum variation occurred among groups (53.36%). Neutrality and mismatch distribution tests suggested thatP. sinensisunderwent a recent population expansion. Consistent with the SAMOVA analysis and haplotype network analyses, theDs andFSTbetween the population pairs indicated that the JN population was distinctive from the others.ConclusionsOur study conducted a comprehensive characterization of seven wildP. sinensispopulations, and our findings elucidated highly significant differences within populations. The JN population was differentiated from the other six populations, as a result of long-term geographical separation. Overall, the present study provided a valuable basis for the management of genetic resources and a better understanding of the ecology and evolution of this species.

Balanites aegyptiaca has been identified as a source of seed oil for biodiesel feedstock. Diversity in its population based on morphological descriptors and seed oil yield has been studied in order to evaluate the variation, association of morphological descriptors with oil yield and inheritance of the traits to facilitate the plans for genetic improvement and its conservation. From seven agro-climatic regions, 56 accessions of B. aegyptiaca were studied to evaluate variability based on morphological descriptors, viz. height, girth, leaf, fruit, pericarp, mesocarp, nut and kernel. The data were subjected to ANOVA, simple measures of variation and D2 statistics. Genetic variability among morphological descriptors was recorded. High heritability (> 0.8) and genetic advance (~ 360%) make kernel weight a suitable marker for genetic improvement of B. aegyptiaca for oil yield. Cluster analysis revealed that cluster V (Jaipur, Sikar, Jodhpur, Dungarpur, Alwar and Kota regions) had high oil. Cluster II with the highest intracluster distance (10,239) was found to be the most suitable for genetic improvement. The population of B. aegyptiaca in Udaipur, Jaipur, Sikar, Jodhpur, Alwar and Dungarpur may be protected for in situ conservation. The study helps in designing strategy to get enhanced oil from B. aegyptiaca and its conservation.

Genome of antarctic endemic Belgica antarctica Jacobs has been sequenced. However, no set of inversion diagnostic markers has ever been assigned for the species. Using the classical method of polytene chromosome squash preparation, we found three heterozygous inversions located on the second (two heterozygous inversions) and third chromosomes (one heterozygous inversion) in the Belgica antarctica population of a cape o f Wiencke Island, 5 00 m to SW from Port Lockroy. The chromosome set and chromosome variability did not differ from those described in the literature (Atchley and Davis 1979). Every salivary gland chromosome ha d its own markers by which it can be determined. However, we did not find a sex-linked inversion on chromosome III and heterozygous inversion on chromosome I, reported in earlier studies . For the first time , we observed a strong heterochromatin band in chromosome III at the telomere of one arm. Our data show not only the stability of the described inversions in the population but also the usefulness of the squash preparation technique in the studies of genetic variability of Belgica antarctica in present time .

The genetic diversity, structure, and differentiation of relict lime plantations in Krasnoyarsk krai (considered as a separate species Tilia nasczokinii Stepanov) were for the first time studied on the basis of the analysis of variability of 12 microsatellite markers of the nuclear genome. In addition, six T. cordata Mill. populations from the European and West Siberian parts of its range and the T. sibirica Bayer population from Kemerovo oblast were included in the study. It was found that lime plantations in the vicinity of Krasnoyarsk (Manskoye Zaymishche and Kashtak) have a similar genetic structure and are in a state close to equilibrium. The level of genetic variability of T. nasczokinii populations is comparable to the level of variability of the T. sibirica population, but was significantly lower than in T. cordata populations. Estimation of the degree of genetic differentiation of lime populations according to interpopulation paired Fst values and Nei’s genetic distances (DN72) detected significant differences of the T. nasczokinii populations from the T. cordata and T. sibirica populations. The analysis of genetic differentiation (by the PCoA method) of paired Fst values and individual genetic distances (D), as well as clustering in STRUCTURE, demonstrated the separation of the studied populations into three groups according to their species affiliation. Moreover, the T. nasczokinii populations are genetically removed from the T. sibirica population to a greater extent than from T. cordata populations.

Polygonatum verticillatum (L.) All. is an important medicinal herb that belongs to the family Asparagaceae. The rhizome of the species is used in Chyavanprash preparation and several other ayurvedic formulations. Numerous active constituents like saponins, alkaloids, phytohormones, flavonoids, antioxidants, lysine, serine, aspartic acid, diosgenin, β-sitosterol, etc. have been reported from this species. In this study, morphological, phytochemical, antioxidant and genetic variations of 11 distant populations of P. verticillatum were measured. Considerably (P

Background Illicium griffithii is an aromatic medicinal tree species that has been listed in the IUCN Red List as an endangered species. Dried seed pods of I. griffithii have a good market potential in the spices and pharmaceutical industries. Fruits are the potential source of shikimic acid and used for the production of oseltamivir (a drug against bird flu). However, in recent years, unscientific harvesting and rampant exploitation of the species has caused a negative and adverse effect on its natural population. Proper knowledge of genetic diversity and population structure is crucial to understand the population dynamics, adaptation, and evolutionary pattern of a particular species for conservation. It was from this view point that the present study was undertaken so as to compare the various types of DNA-based molecular markers namely RAPD, ISSR, DAMD, and SCoT by their efficiency and SPAR approach to evaluate the genetic diversity of I. griffithii as well as to analyze population genetic structure for conservation purpose. Result A total of 250 discernible bands were generated with 246 bands (98.40 %) being polymorphic in nature. All the primers in combination gave a mean polymorphic information content (PIC) of 0.81 and Rp value (resolving power) of 4.32. Nei’s, Gst, and AMOVA analysis showed similar values of genetic differentiation among populations (Gst = 0.396, FST = 0.30, respectively), revealing a low level of genetic differentiation among the eight sampled populations. I. griffithii with an estimated gene flow value of Nm = 0.761 was significantly low among populations. Clustering pattern obtained with Bayesian structure and PCoA diagram revealed that intermixing of genetic material across populations is only possible when the populations lie close to each other. This is further validated with UPGMA clustering method where a positive correlation of genetic variability with geographical distance among closely related populations could be clearly seen. Conclusion The result aids in the identification, collection, and preservation of diverse germplasm of I. griffithii from Arunachal Pradesh and Meghalaya of Northeast India. This would further help in understanding the population structure and genetic diversity among other Illicium species in order to formulate effective conservation strategies for the improvement of this endangered taxa.

Grapevine rupestris stem pitting-associated virus (GRSPaV) is a member of the genus Foveavirus in the family Betaflexiviridae exhibiting high genetic variability. In the present study, a total of eleven full length coat protein gene sequences of GRSPaV were characterized from wine grape cultivars grown in the state of Maharashtra (Nashik and Pune) and Imphal (Manipur). Their molecular diversity was compared with corresponding sequences reported from other grape-growing regions globally. In pairwise sequence comparisons, the coat protein (CP) sequences of Indian GRSPaV isolates exhibited the identity in the range of 81–98% at nucleotide level when compared to respective CP sequences of GRSPaV isolates reported across the globe. A maximum likelihood phylogenetic analysis based on CP with the global isolates revealed six major phylogenetic clusters and two putative new clusters. Nine Indian GRSPaV isolates clustered in previously recognized three major lineages (groups II, III, and IV), while two of the isolates GRSPaV-RG14 and -B2 shared the recently identified putative group VIII. Our study also revealed the intra-host diversity exhibiting the presence of genetically distinct variants in the single host and inconsistencies in the placements was observed in their CP-based phylogenetic tree. This study also analyzed the population genetic parameters of GRSPaV isolates that showed the CP sequences were more variable within the isolates of group III (GRSPaV-BS) cluster (π =0.054), while various other factors including Tajima values (D) for group VIII appeared to be deviating from the trend for other GRSPaV lineages.

Aim. To study the polymorphism of the genes calpastatin (CAST), somatotropin (GH) and differential growth factor (GDF9) of sheep of the Dagestan mountain breed.Material and Methods. Studies on the genetic typing of Dagestan mountain sheep according to CAST, GH and GDF9 genes were carried out in conditions of distant pasture farming in the Republic of Dagestan by the Genetics and Breeding Laboratory of the Federal Agrarian Scientific Centre of the Republic of Dagestan, an accredited laboratory of immunogenetics and DNA technologies of the All-Russian Research Institute of Sheep and Goat Breeding and a branch of the North Caucasus Federal Scientific Agrarian Centre. These investigations were undertaken by the PCR-RFLP method (polymyrase chain reaction - restriction fragment length polymorphism) on a Tersik four-channel programmable thermal cycler from DNA-Technologia (Russia) using specific primers synthesized in the SYNTHOL research and production laboratory (Moscow).Results. Carrying out PCR-RFLP revealed breed-specific alleles with different frequency of occurrence, which was: in the locus of the CAST gene - allele CASTN - 0.03; allele CASTM - 0.97; at the GH gene locus - GHA allele - 100.0, GHB allele - 0; in the locus of the GDF9 gene - the GDF9A allele - 0.25, the GDF9G allele - 0.75, which determined the frequency of occurrence of the homo- and heterozygous genotypes: CASTNN, CASTMM and CASTNM - 93.0; 0 and 7.0%; GHAA, GHBB and GHAB - 100.0 and 0%; GDF9AA, GDF9GG and GDF9АG- 16.0, 66.0 and 19.0%, respectively.Conclusion. The regularity revealed can be considered as an ecological factor that optimizes the adaptive functions of the sheep's organism, on the one hand, an evolutionary selection process that contributes to the creation of a specific way of genetic structures in the population, on the other. The assumption is made that the information obtained can serve as the beginning of a more in-depth study of the unique gene pool of sheep of the Dagestan rock breed for its further improvement. Variants of genetic marker profiles of parental pairs are proposed for accumulation in breeding herds bred in different ecological-geographical zones and genotypes of carriers of selection-significant genetic structures.

Russet ground squirrel (Spermophilus major) is a widespread species with an extended range, partly separated by the Ural Ridge into eastern and western parts. Previously, a hybridization of the russet ground squirrel in contact areas with five other Spermophilus species, accompanied by a wide introgression of their mitochondrial genomes, was found. In the present work, a comparative analysis of the variability of the mtDNA control region of S. major was for the first time carried out throughout the range of the species (without taking into account introgressed haplotypes). It was demonstrated that species-specific haplotypes of S. major are distributed in all parts of its modern area and are characterized by a low level of intraspecific variability. The phylogeographic structure of the russet ground squirrel is slightly differentiated and does not form distinct geographically localized phyletic lines. In general, the range of the species is a single genetic space slightly separated by the Ural Mountains. The spatial distribution of haplotypes indicates the presence of an exchange between the western and eastern parts of the area in the Middle Urals. The indices of genetic diversity are evidence in favor of the expansive type of an increase in the population number, possible expansion of the range from the eastern part in the western direction, and short-term contacts of Cis-Ural and Trans-Ural northern populations. The results of the analysis of S. major genetic variability do not support the accepted subspecies system.

Made available in DSpace on 2021-07-14T10:22:48Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2021-07-05. Added 1 bitstream(s) on 2021-07-14T11:28:49Z : No. of bitstreams: 1 S0102-05362021000200229.pdf: 620945 bytes, checksum: 1532c5a213a8f979825de20c4bef632d (MD5) Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) Centro de Raízes Tropicais e Amidos (CERAT) Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES) International Potato Center (CIP) A batata-doce é uma hortaliça de grande importância na alimentação humana, devido ao seu alto valor nutritivo. Apresenta alta variação fenotípica, com diversas formas de raízes, folhas e ramas. Diante do exposto, objetivou-se estudar a divergência genética de genótipos de batata-doce por meio de caracteres morfoagronômicos. O experimento foi conduzido em área experimental da Unesp, Câmpus de Ilha Solteira, situada no município de Selvíria-MS. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi de blocos casualizados com duas repetições, incluindo 200 genótipos e ‘Beauregard’ como testemunha biofortificada. Foram avaliados caracteres morfoagronômicos de parte aérea dos genótipos aos 110 dias e de raiz aos 127 dias, após o plantio. Com os dados obtidos realizou-se análise descritiva em percentual das classes fenotípicas. Para estudo da divergência genética realizou-se análise multivariada, agrupando-se pelos métodos de Tocher & Ward. Também realizou-se análise da contribuição relativa de cada carácter para a divergência genética. As análises estatísticas foram feitas utilizando-se o programa computacional Genes e SAS. Há ampla diversidade genética na população estudada, o que pode possibilitar ganhos genéticos na recombinação dos genótipos. O método de agrupamento de Tocher foi mais efetivo para discriminação da dissimilaridade entre os genótipos. A baixa importância relativa dos caracteres tamanho da folha, diâmetro do internódio e cor secundária da casca, permite dispensar a sua análise em futuros trabalhos, reduzindo gastos de mão-de-obra, custo e tempo de execução. Sweet potato is a vegetable of great importance in human consumption, due to its high nutritional value. It presents high phenotypic variation, with different forms of roots, leaves and vines. Given the above, we aimed to study the genetic divergence of sweet potato genotypes based on morpho-agronomic traits. The experiment was conducted in an experimental area of Unesp, Ilha Solteira Campus, located in Selvíria-MS. The experimental design used was randomized blocks with two replicates, including 200 genotypes and ‘Beauregard’ as a biofortified control. Shoot morphological traits of the genotypes were evaluated at 110 days and root morphological traits were evaluated at 127 days after planting. We used the obtained data to perform descriptive analysis, in percentage of phenotypic classes. In order to study genetic divergence, multivariate analysis was performed, grouping was done using Tocher’s and Ward’s methods. We also analyzed relative contribution of each trait for genetic divergence. Statistical analyzes were performed using Genes software and SAS. Wide genetic variability could be verified in the population studied in this experiment, being possible to obtain genetic gains in recombination between genotypes. Grouping using Tocher’s method was more effective for discriminating dissimilarity between genotypes. The low relative importance of leaf size, internode diameter and secondary peel color makes further evaluation of these traits unnecessary, reducing labor costs, cost and execution time. Universidade Estadual Paulista International Potato Center Universidade Estadual Paulista FAPESP: 2017/08032-0; 001 Centro de Raízes Tropicais e Amidos (CERAT): 2017/08032-0; 001 CAPES: 2017/08032-0; 001 International Potato Center (CIP): 2017/08032-0; 001

Objective: The aim was to characterize the genetic diversity evolution of the registered Mexican Charolais cattle population by pedigree analysis. Methods: Data consisted of 331,390 pedigree records of animals born from 1934 to 2018. Average complete generation equivalent, generation interval, effective population size (Ne), and effective numbers of founders (fe), ancestors (fa), and founder genomes (Ng) were calculated for seven five-year periods. The inbreeding coefficient was calculated per year of birth, from 1984 to 2018, whereas the gene contribution of the most influential ancestors was calculated for the latter period. Results: Average complete generation equivalent consistently increased across periods, from 4.76, for the first period (1984 through 1988), to 7.86, for the last period (2014 through 2018). The inbreeding coefficient showed a relative steadiness across the last seventeen years, oscillating from 0.0110 to 0.0145. During the last period, the average generation interval for the father-offspring pathways was nearly 1 yr. longer than that of the mother-offspring pathways. The effective population size increased steadily since 1984 (105.0) and until 2013 (237.1), but showed a minor decline from 2013 to 2018 (233.2). The population displayed an increase in the fa since 1984 and until 2008; however, showed a small decrease during the last decade. The effective number of founder genomes increased from 1984 to 2003, but revealed loss of genetic variability during the last fifteen years (from 136.4 to 127.7). The fa:fe ratio suggests that the genetic diversity loss was partially caused by formation of genetic bottlenecks in the pedigree; in addition, the Ng:fa ratio indicates loss of founder alleles due to genetic drift. The most influential ancestor explained 1.8% of the total genetic variability in the progeny born from 2014 to 2018. Conclusion: Inbreeding, Ne, fa, and Ng are rather beyond critical levels; therefore, the current genetic status of the population is not at risk.

Heterozygosity is a metric of genetic variability frequently used to inform the management of threatened taxa. Estimating observed and expected heterozygosities from genome-wide sequence data has become increasingly common, and these estimates are often derived directly from genotypes at single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. While many SNP markers can provide precise estimates of genetic processes, the results of ‘downstream’ analysis with these markers may depend heavily on ‘upstream’ filtering decisions. Here we explore the downstream consequences of sample size, rare allele filtering, missing data thresholds and known population structure on estimates of observed and expected heterozygosity using two reduced-representation sequencing datasets, one from the mosquito Aedes aegypti (ddRADseq) and the other from a threatened grasshopper, Keyacris scurra (DArTseq). We show that estimates based on polymorphic markers only (i.e. SNP heterozygosity) are always biased by global sample size (N), with smaller N producing larger estimates. By contrast, results are unbiased by sample size when calculations consider monomorphic as well as polymorphic sequence information (i.e. genome-wide or autosomal heterozygosity). SNP heterozygosity is also biased when differentiated populations are analysed together while autosomal heterozygosity remains unbiased. We also show that when nucleotide sites with missing genotypes are included, observed and expected heterozygosity estimates diverge in proportion to the amount of missing data permitted at each site. We make three recommendations for estimating genome-wide heterozygosity: (a) autosomal heterozygosity should be reported instead of (or in addition to) SNP heterozygosity; (b) sites with any missing data should be omitted and (c) populations should be analysed in independent runs. This should facilitate comparisons within and across studies and between observed and expected measures of heterozygosity.

Genetic improvement of the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis) through conventional breeding approaches depends mainly on the availability of diverse germplasm and the amount of genetic variability present in the population. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the extent of genetic variability in the 1995 Rubber Research Institute of Malaysia (RRIM) Hevea germplasm core collection to determine the correlation and the direct and indirect effects of morphological and bark structural characters on latex yield. The analysis of variance showed highly significant differences among the genotypes for all the nine characters studied. The phenotypic coefficient of variations was higher than the genotypic coefficient of variations for all characters studied, suggesting that the apparent variation is not only genetic but also influenced by the growing environment in the expression of the traits. High heritability and high genetic advance were noted for latex yield, indicating the possibility of improvement for this character through phenotypic selection. Latex yield showed significant and positive correlations with plant girth, total number of latex vessel rings, total bark thickness, and total leaf area at both phenotypic and genotypic level. Path coefficient analysis revealed the highest direct effect of plant girth on latex yield, followed by total number of latex vessel rings and total bark thickness indicating the importance of these characters for yield improvement and their potential as reliable indicators for indirect selection in the established core collection.

In 1911 and 1917, the first commercial plantings of African oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) were made in Indonesia and Malaysia in Southeast Asia. In less than 15 years, basal stem rot (BSR) was reported in Malaysia. It took nearly another seven decades to identify the main causal agent of BSR as the fungus, Ganoderma boninense. Since then, research efforts have focused on understanding G. boninense disease epidemiology, biology, and etiology, but limited progress was made to characterize pathogen genetic diversity, spatial structure, pathogenicity, and virulence. This study describes pathogen variability, gene flow, population differentiation, and genetic structure of G. boninense in Sarawak (Malaysia), Peninsular Malaysia, and Sumatra (Indonesia) inferred by 16 highly polymorphic cDNA-SSR (simple sequence repeat) markers. Marker-inferred genotypic diversity indicated a high level of pathogen variability among individuals within a population and among different populations. This genetic variability is clearly the result of outcrossing between basidiospores to produce recombinant genotypes. Although our results indicated high gene flow among the populations, there was no significant genetic differentiation among G. boninense populations on a regional scale. It suggested that G. boninense genetic makeup is similar across a wide region. Furthermore, our results revealed the existence of three admixed genetic clusters of G. boninense associated with BSR-diseased oil palms sampled throughout Sarawak, Peninsular Malaysia, and Sumatra. We postulate that the population structure is likely a reflection of the high genetic variability of G. boninense populations. This, in turn, could be explained by highly successful outcrossing between basidiospores of G. boninense from Southeast Asia and introduced genetic sources from various regions of the world, as well as regional adaptation of various pathogen genotypes to different palm hosts. Pathogen variability and population structure could be employed to deduce the epidemiology of G. boninense, as well as the implications of plantation cultural practices on BSR disease control in different regions.

Las poblaciones de gallinas criollas en explotaciones en pequeña escala poseen una gran diversidad y son parte del reservorio genético avícola en México; además, constituyen una importante fuente de proteína para las familias del medio rural. Con el propósito de conocer la variabilidad genética de poblaciones de gallinas criollas en la región central de Oaxaca, se tomaron muestras de sangre de 109 gallinas criollas, provenientes de 17 poblaciones y de 30 gallinas Plymouth Rock como testigos. Se usaron 10 marcadores de tipo microsatélites, con los que se detectó un total de 109 alelos, con 10.9 ± 3.1 alelos por locus en promedio. La heterocigosidad observada (Ho) varió de 0.575 (San Lucas) a 0.750 (San Antonino 2) y la esperada (He) de 0.625 (Testigo) a 0.733 (Huixtepec 2). A nivel general se encontró un incremento en el número de heterocigotos evidenciado por un nivel de endogamia global (FIT) de 0.042; el índice FST de diferenciación entre poblaciones fue moderado (0.059) y la endogamia de individuos dentro de poblaciones (FIS) resultó negativa (-0.017), lo que indica un exceso de heterocigotos a ese nivel. El análisis de conglomerados agrupó a las poblaciones de Nazareno, ITVO, San Lucas y San Antonio, evidenciando que son poblaciones de gallinas criollas aisladas y diferenciadas genéticamente en algunas características. Esta información es importante para diseñar futuros programas de conservación, selección y multiplicación de esta especie a nivel de traspatio en la región central de Oaxaca, México.

Assessment of genetic diversity and extent of trait variation among germplasm accessions facilitate the effective use of genetic resources for varietal development. In linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.), early maturity is desirable as it helps avoid several biotic and abiotic stress. In present study, genetic variability of 220 accessions of linseed was studied using 25 agro-morphological traits for 2 years, 2017–2018 and 2018–2019. Remarkable variability was observed for flowering, maturity and other economically important traits such as thousand seed weight, capsule number, seed, and capsule area. Based on 2-year evaluation data for flowering and maturity traits, a panel of 34 accessions was constructed to study genetic diversity using SSR markers. Total 89 alleles were amplified with a mean of 3.069 alleles per locus. Polymorphism information content value ranged from 0.20 to 0.66 with mean of 0.42. Clustering based on SSR data followed the flowering-maturity trait pattern to a large extent. Genetic population structure analysis showed two populations in similarity with the trait groups. Analysis of molecular variance revealed 16% variance among the populations. Shannon's diversity information index within population I and II were 0.67 and 0.78, respectively. Additionally, allelic variation in a putative floral homeotic gene encoding APETALA2 transcription factor was studied in two early and two late accessions by PCR amplification and sequencing. Total 12 SNPs were identified, of which six could distinguish early and late accessions. The genetic and genomic resources identified here are expected to aid in linseed genetic improvement programme targeted to specific traits, especially, early flowering and maturity.

Diverse pathogenic variability in Colletotrichum lindemuthianum is existing in the North Western (NW) Himalayan region. This enigmatic nature of variability has rendered host plant resistance, the most substantial and sustainable disease management approach useless. The frequent resistance breakdown warrants continual spatiotemporal deployment of resistance genes in the host. Therefore, for the durability of resistance genes, there should be an adequate knowledge of the genetic basis of both host resistance and the pathogenicity in the pathogen. In India, several studies have been carried out to characterize the pathogen and to assess the genetic variability in the pathogen. But, the knowledge about the genetic basis of variability is ambiguous. To get insights into the variability mechanism of pathogen and molecular characterization of genes involved in mating, fifteen isolates from Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir were crossed in all possible combinations. Isolates showed two classes of interactions with 95% of the combinations showing negative interaction and 5% showed potential type of interaction. The pattern of interaction indicated that the typical bipolar mating or two idiomorphic systems is not responsible for the compatible interactions, rather supports the concept of unbalanced heterothallism. The results indicate that the isolates even being diverse and collected in different years does have mutated alleles at MAT1-2 locus but mutations are not enough for sexual reproduction to occur at significant level between C. lindemuthianum isolates. However, the potential interaction shown by a few isolate combinations indicate sporadic events of recombination among and within the NW C. lindemuthianum populations. Being highly variable pathogen, additional studies are needed to underpin the mechanism of variation in NW C. lindemuthianum population, which is prerequisite to implement better management approaches to counter the pathogen.

Aphanius fasciatus is a small fish occurring in Mediterranean brackish environments. In Cyprus it is known from three localities separated by long stretches of coast. The genetic diversity of these populations was evaluated using fragments of two mitochondrial genes. A comparison with the other available data showed that Cyprus populations represent a distinct lineage. The other lineages are concentrated in a relatively small area between the Strait of Sicily and the Western Ionian Sea, while all other areas include a subset of these lineages, suggesting that the aforementioned area might have acted as a glacial refugium. Landlocked North-African populations diverge from all other populations, suggesting that they might have originated in the Late Pleistocene, during transgression events of the Mediterranean Sea in North-African inland water bodies. The genetic diversity of A. fasciatus varied across different Cyprus populations, with a pattern mirroring the degree of environmental degradation, which likely affected population genetic variability through demographic reductions. The three Cyprus populations showed genetic uniqueness, suggesting the need of population-based management practices; the low genetic diversity of two populations, and the number of threats affecting them, suggest that the species should be considered endangered at national level and deserves protection measures.

We have analyzed DNA microsatellites and the mitochondrial control region in reindeer from 31 different husbandry areas in Norway, Sweden, and Finland in order to better understand the processes that underlie the genetic variability of the Nordic domestic herds. The distinct differentiation found in the nuclear markers but less so in the mitochondrial marker gives evidence of an origin from a common ancestral population which later evolved into the two main gene pools characterizing the nuclear genomes of domestic reindeer in Finland and most of Sweden and Norway. Analyses of temporal trends in effective population size give evidence of a rapid increase in number of reindeer before the population growth associated with the pastoral transition. This implies that the ancestry of contemporary domestic reindeer lay among a rapidly growing wild population possibly located in the boreal areas of eastern Fennoscandia or European Russia. The evolution of reindeer husbandry in Finland, perhaps with input from European Russia, which later spread to northern Norway could explain the shared genomic pattern observed in these areas today. The structured selection of productive female-centered herds may explain the genetic structure in other parts of Norway and in Sweden. The further substructuring of the Swedish/ Norwegian gene pool appears to follow the traditional language borders with the South Sami language dominating the southern and the Central Sami language in the more northern genetic subclusters. This suggests that traditional knowledge, cultural identities, and herd migrations have contributed to shape the genetic structure seen today. Ecological gradients are more pronounced within as compared to between the genetic clusters, giving further evidence that historical and social-cultural processes are important drivers for the genetic differentiations found in domestic reindeer across the Nordic countries.

Achondrostoma salmantinum is a small, endangered freshwater fish endemic to Spain. Although the species is a member of the widely distributed family Leuciscidae, its geographic range is restricted to a few rivers in the southwestern Duero Basin. Its populations are in decline, with some now extirpated from rivers within its historical distribution. A captive breeding program has already been implemented for the species; however, there are no population genetic studies on A. salmantinum, despite the importance of information on genetic variability and variation as fundamentals tools for management and conservation efforts. Here, we assessed the genetic diversity of A. salmantinum and defined its Operational Conservation Units (OCUs). We sampled throughout the entire known distribution area of A. salmantinum, and analysed both nuclear and mitochondrial genes and 4123 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Contrary to expectations, due to its small distribution area within the same basin, A. salmantinum showed signs of marked genetic erosion and a strong population structure that is not associated with the current hydrogeographic configuration of the region, but rather with historical geomorphological processes. On the basis of our genetic analyses, we identified four OCUs for the species: (I) Águeda Sub-basin; (II) Uces Sub-basin, Huebra River and the right-bank tributaries of Huebra Sub-basin; (III) left-bank tributaries of Huebra Sub-basin and (IV) Camaces River, a small left-bank tributary of the Huebra River. Overall, our findings provide insight on the population genetic structure of A. salmantinum and on some intrinsic and extrinsic factors that threaten the viability of the species., This study was also supported by a management commission funded by the Duero Hydrographic Confederation in Spain (Análisis y estudios filogeográficos y de variabilidad genética de endemismos ibéricos de ciprínidos: Life13 nat/es/000772 “Actuaciones para la protección y conservación de ciprínidos ibéricos de interés comunitario”) and by grant IND2017/AMB‐7699 to AC‐L, funded by the Community of Madrid (Spain) through its Industrial Doctorate programme.

For the estimation of genetic diversity and population structure, 23 accessions of Leucaena leucocephala were characterized using morphological and molecular markers. A medium to high degree of genetic variability was calculated among these accessions based on eight quantitative traits. Furthermore, a cluster analysis based on morphological characteristics grouped the 23 Leucaena accessions into five groups based on their similarities. Furthermore, the principal component analysis revealed that eight quantitative traits contributed for 82.57% of the total variability. Eleven simple sequence repeats (SSR) markers showed a high degree of polymorphism among the 23 L. leucocephala accessions. The polymorphic information contents (PIC) for these 11 markers were estimated and revealed that SSR723 had higher PIC value (0.90). Also, the dendrogram generated based on 11 markers distinctively demarcated most of the L. leucocephala accessions into different clusters indicating its vast genetic diversity in the population. A population structure study of these 23 L. leucocephala accessions showed the existence of two gene pools. Also, analysis of molecular variance showed that there was 13% variability between populations, while there was 87% variability within the population. The first and second coordinates of principal coordinate analysis unconditionally distributed these accessions into four coordinates based on their similarity. Overall, the high degree of genetic variability described by morphological and molecular markers in L. leucocephala can be used as a basic tool for assessing genetic diversity and linkage mapping in Leucaena genetic improvement programs.

Population genetic studies of Hemileia vastatrix have been conducted in order to describe the evolutionary dynamics of the pathogen and the disease epidemiology as consequence of changes in disease management and host distribution occurred in Peru after the 2013 epidemic. These analyses were performed by sequencing the internal transcribed spacers of the nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA-ITS) of H. vastatrix collected from two coffee growing areas in 2014 and 2018. H. vastatrix population showed high haplotype diversity (Hd = 0.9373 ± 0.0115) with a low nucleotide diversity (π = 0.00322 ± 0.00018). Likewise, AMOVA indicated that fungus population has behaved as a large population without structuring by geographical origin and sampling years (FST = 0.00180, P = 0.20053 and FST = 0.00241, P = 0.19693, respectively). Additionally, the haplotype network based on intraspecific phylogenetic analysis of H. vastatrix using Peruvian and NCBI sequences revealed that Peruvian ancestral haplotypes, which were maintained in time and space, would correspond to the reported sequences of the races II and XXII. This re-sult suggests that no substantial changes have occurred through time in Peruvian Hemileia vastatrix population. © 2021, Korean Society of Plant Pathology. All rights reserved. This research was supported by project N? 177-2015 FONDECYT (The National Fund for Scientific and Technological Development) and Universidad Nacional Agraria La Molina, Peru.

In human‐dominated landscapes, connectivity is crucial for maintaining demographically stable mammalian populations. Here, we provide a comprehensive noninvasive genetic study for the brown bear population in the Hellenic Peninsula. We analyze its population structuring and connectivity, estimate its population size throughout its distribution, and describe its phylogeography in detail for the first time. Our results, based on 150 multilocus genotypes and on 244‐bp sequences of the mtDNA control region, show the population is comprised by three highly differentiated genetic clusters, consistent with geographical populations of Pindos, Peristeri, and Rhodope. By detecting two male bears with Rhodopean ancestry in the western demes, we provide strong evidence for the ongoing genetic connectivity of the geographically fragmented eastern and western distributions, which suggests connectivity of the larger East Balkan and Pindos‐Dinara populations. Total effective population size (Ne) was estimated to be 199 individuals, and total combined population size (NC) was 499, with each cluster showing a relatively high level of genetic variability, suggesting that migration has been sufficient to counteract genetic erosion. The mtNDA results were congruent with the microsatellite data, and the three genetic clusters were matched predominantly with an equal number of mtDNA haplotypes that belong to the brown bear Western mitochondrial lineage (Clade 1), with two haplotypes being globally new and endemic. The detection of a fourth haplotype that belongs to the Eastern lineage (Clade 3a1) in three bears from the western distribution places the southernmost secondary contact zone between the Eastern and Western lineages in Greece and generates new hypotheses about postglacial maxima migration routes. This work indicates that the genetic composition and diversity of Europe's low‐latitude fringe population are the outcome of ancient and historical events and highlight its importance for the connectivity and long‐term persistence of the species in the Balkans.

Introduction. In the structure of meat cattle breeding in Ukraine already a long time the leader in the number among of breeds of foreign origin there is a Aberdeen-Angus. This breed, due to its high manufacturability, is intensively used as a genetic material in the breed-forming process and increase the production capacities of the pedigree base of cattle breeding. At one time, the most intensive works on the development of the breed was conduct on the basis of the SAE "Main Breeding Center of Ukraine". Thanks the validity state support was organized the estimating of bulls for their own productivity and quality of descendants, was formed a bank of deep-frozen sperm and embryos, were created informative electronic card indexes of individual data of pedigree animals. This determines the expediency of analyzing the features of the formation of the genealogical structure of the population of the Aberdeen-Angus breed on the basis of the study of individual herds, which becoming the purpose of this work. The purpose of this work was to investigate the genealogical lines and families in the herd of Aberdeen-Angus breed in SAE "Main Breeding Center of Ukraine". Research materials and methods. The study of the genealogical structure was carried out on the basis of data primary zootechnical accounting in the format of SMDC "Orsek-M", expeditionary examination of the herd and the results of a comprehensive individual estimating of animals. Biometric processing of data was carrying out according to the method of N. A. Plokhinsky with using the software Microsoft Excel. Research results. As of 01.01.2021 year, in the herd of the enterprise total accrued of 155 heads, including 84 cows, which now fertilization of the method of natural mating bulls, purchased from the LLC “Ratnivsky Agrariy”, which obtained by method of artificial insemination of high-producing cows of the 2nd and older calves sperm of bull of Team Z Pecina 4031. Now the uterine stock of the studied herd belongs to the lines Southom Extr – 29 heads, Raito Iver 865 – 18 heads, Villabar 85 – 8 heads, Raito B 1567126 – 7 heads, Vetonk 2446 – 5 heads, Ilinmer Led 173 – 4 heads, Brialhill Sauzerner – 2 heads and the related group Team Z Pecina 4031 – 11 heads. The age of cows fluctuated from 3.1 to 19.2 years, and in the average be 9.8 years. The oldest cows belongs to the lines Raito B 1567126, Brialhill Sauzerner and Ilinmer Led 173, the youngest – to the related group Team Z Pecina 4031 and to the line Vetonk 2446. In the studied herd total detected 23 potential ancestors, which have living descendants of female sex. The most numerous are the families of K. Pride 11212597 – 9 descendants, E. Pride 11153487 – 8 descendants, K. Vessi 10887560 – 7 descendants. The families of Erika 3200797288, Kornela 3200797248, Sara 11756665 and Sandy 951931 presented 5 descendants of female sex of different generations. The minimum age of more than 10 years have the representatives of families of K. Erika 10240733, Beauty 10767437 and Elbe 3200797255, and the maximum age from 18 to 19.5 years – the representatives of families of K. Erika 10240733, Elin 10679739, E. Pride 11153487, Gemmer 10189403. The lowest and the highest average live weight had the newborn heifers the family of Kornela 3200797248 – 24.0 ± 1.7 kg, and the family of E. Pride 11153487 – 33.2 ± 1.5 kg, respectively. The average live weight of newborn heifers in other studied families was following: K. Pride 11212597 – 25.1 ± 0.4 kg; Erika 3200797288 – 28.6 ± 1.6 kg; K. Vessi 10887560 – 29.5 ± 1.5 kg; Sandy 951931 – 30.4 ± 1.6 kg. The average daily gain of live weight of heifers for the period from birth to 12 months of age fluctuated from 615 to 750 grams. The highest and the lowest average live weight at 12 months had the heifers the family of E. Pride 11153487 – 307.0 ± 19.7 kg and the family of K. Pride 11212597 – 249.2 ± 8.5 kg, respectively. Almost identical average live weight had the heifers the families of K. Wessie 10887560 and Kornela 3200797248 – 266.1 ± 11.14 kg and 266.6 ± 6.1 kg, respectively. The age of the first insemination fluctuated from 17.6 months in heifers the family of Erika 3200797288 to 21.4 months in heifers the family of K. Vessi 10887560. The highest average live weight at the age of the first insemination had the heifers the family of Sandy 951931 – 364.7 ± 20.6 kg, and the lowest – the heifers the family of Erika 3200797288 – 303.0 ± 8.8 kg, due to the younger age of their first insemination. Conclusions. Considerable narrowing of the genealogical structure of the modern herd of Aberdeen-Angus breed in SAE "Main Breeding Center of Ukraine" provoke the full absence representatives such classical lines as Ideal 3163, Power Play 8974207 and Showshoun 548. Due to the expansion of the related group Team Z Pecina 4031 will increase the genetic variability, reorganize age structure the uterine stock and direct zootechnical work with families to improve the parameters of individual growth and development of animals.

Quantification of interindividual variability is a continuing challenge in risk assessment, particularly for compounds with complex metabolism and multi-organ toxicity. Toxicokinetic variability for perchloroethylene (perc) was previously characterized across 3 mouse strains and in 1 mouse strain with various degrees of liver steatosis. To further characterize the role of genetic variability in toxicokinetics of perc, we applied Bayesian population physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling to the data on perc and metabolites in blood/plasma and tissues of male mice from 45 inbred strains from the Collaborative Cross (CC) mouse population. After identifying the most influential PBPK parameters based on global sensitivity analysis, we fit the model with a hierarchical Bayesian population analysis using Markov chain Monte Carlo simulation. We found that the data from 3 commonly used strains were not representative of the full range of variability in perc and metabolite blood/plasma and tissue concentrations across the CC population. Using interstrain variability as a surrogate for human interindividual variability, we calculated dose-dependent, chemical-, and tissue-specific toxicokinetic variability factors (TKVFs) as candidate science-based replacements for the default uncertainty factor for human toxicokinetic variability of 100.5. We found that toxicokinetic variability factors for glutathione conjugation metabolites of perc showed the greatest variability, often exceeding the default, whereas those for oxidative metabolites and perc itself were generally less than the default. Overall, we demonstrate how a combination of a population-based mouse model such as the CC with Bayesian population PBPK modeling can reduce uncertainty in human toxicokinetic variability and increase accuracy and precision in quantitative risk assessment.

Habitat fragmentation and degradation have led to a proliferation of small and isolated populations that are vulnerable to genetic erosion. Reduction in habitat and concomitant declines in population connectivity can expediate the collapse of species that exist as natural metapopulations. In recent years, Allegheny woodrats (Neotoma magister) have experienced local extirpations and declines in genetic diversity across their range due to disease-related mortality, reduced food availability, and disruption of connectivity among subpopulations. In response, we developed a captive-breeding program to facilitate genetic management of isolated woodrat populations in Indiana. Between 2010 and 2012, 27 captive-reared individuals were released to four sites with declining woodrat abundance. We used 99 single nucleotide polymorphisms and 11 microsatellite loci to genotype sympatric woodrats from the four sites, sampled before and after the release of captive-reared individuals, to: (1) evaluate the post-release reproductive success of captive-reared individuals and (2) characterize changes in genetic diversity. A minimum of five of the 27 captive-reared woodrats produced at least 20 offspring, 11 of which were sired by a single male. One site exhibited increased abundance by the end of the monitoring period, although genetic variability decreased. Two sites experienced population declines in concert with fluctuating genetic variability. The last site showed comparable abundance at the beginning and end of the monitoring period, with an increase in observed heterozygosity. Our results indicate that captive-reared woodrats were, in some cases, able to reproduce in the wild, interbreed with residents and increase genetic diversity and abundance among small, isolated subpopulations.

This paper presents the results of genetic variability analyses using genealogical data on the main genetic bloodline of the Australian Cattle Dog in Italy, a line that has had a significant impact on the development of the breed. All the genealogical data on the progeny and ancestors of one of the first stallions introduced in Italy were considered, i.e. Cattlefarm's Comeback Jack born on 1/2/1997 in Finland. Animals from the bloodline born between 1962 and 2019 were considered. A total number of 1722 animals were found to be from the line which represents the entire population (WP), including the basic population (BP) and the reference population (RP) defined as the animals currently living. A total of 982 animals were in the RP, with the oldest living dogs born in 2004. A total of 854 dogs were inbred. The average inbreeding coefficient (F) in the RP was 5.1%, while the average inbreeding of the inbred animals was 5.8%. The F was 0.20 in only 36 dogs (3.91% of inbred). Fifteen traced generations were highlighted. A maximum average inbreeding value (6.45%) was observed in the dogs with 11 traced generations. This research highlighted the good genetic variability of this Australian Cattle Dog bloodline thanks to the efficient management of the breeders who in the past introduced some stallions from abroad. Currently, the lines in Italy are not sufficiently high to prevent inbreeding in the new matings, which is becoming frequent. It is, therefore, important to continue to import new stallions for reproduction to expand the genetic variability. However, at the same time, the old lines need to be preserved genetically, aptitudinally and morphologically, as they are an important heritage of the breed in Italy.

Cherax quadricarinatus is a decapod crustacean of interest to the aquaculture industry. In Mexico, a significant effort has been made to improve biological requirements, but the genetic characteristics are unknown. We examined the genetic diversity and differentiation in four populations in Mexico (three commercial farms and one feral population), as well as one research line from Argentina, used as reference. To initiate a founder stock in a genetic improvement program, we analyzed five microsatellite markers. The genetic diversity in terms of the number of alleles was low to moderate (2.8-6.2) in Mexican populations than the Argentinean sample (8.8). A pairwise Wright's Fst analysis showed that all populations were significantly different (P < 0.5). Cross-breeding organisms from a different population are suggested to increase genetic variability before initiating a founder stock with higher genetic variation.

Over the past several decades, stingless bee cytogenetic studies have focused on chromosome number and morphology of specific samples, with little emphasis on population variations. More recently, molecular techniques have facilitated analyses of the fine chromosomal structure, allowing the identification of interspecific variations and increasing our knowledge of the karyotype structure. Thus, the present study aimed to analyse the distribution of ribosomal genes and repetitive sequences in the genome of Friesella schrottkyi (Friese 1900), providing relevant information about its genomic organization. Two samples were obtained from Minas Gerais state (Rio Paranaiba and Vicosa) and one from Cunha/Sao Paulo state, Brazil, all of which showed 2n = 34 chromosomes, 2K: 10m + 12sm + 12st. Heterochromatin (C-banding) was detected mainly in the centromeric/pericentromeric region, but some specific patterns were verified in individuals from each location. An intense spreading of the microsatellite (GA)15 was observed, most commonly in the euchromatic areas of the chromosomes. The CMA3+ bands were found in two chromosomes in the samples from Cunha and Vicosa, while the sample from Rio Paranaiba contained three CMA3+ bands. There were also differences in the number and locations of the 18S rDNA clusters among the different samples. Although we found no differences between samples from the same location, the many intraspecific variations founded clearly demonstrate the potential of utilising molecular cytogenetics as a method of improving our understanding of the genetic variability in the Meliponini tribe.

Background and Aim: India has large varieties (recognized, unrecognized) of native chickens (Desi) scattered throughout the country, managed under scavenging system different from commercial chicken breeds. However, they are less investigated for genetic diversity they harbor. The present study was planned to evaluate genetic diversity among two native chicken populations of North Gujarat (proposed Aravali breed) and South Gujarat (Ankleshwar breed). Aravali chicken, a distinct population with unique characters different from the registered chicken breeds of India is under process to be registered as a new chicken breed of Gujarat, India. Materials and Methods: Two mitochondrial markers, namely, cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COX I) and cytochrome b (Cyt b) genes were studied across 10 birds from each population. Methodology included sample collection (blood), DNA isolation (manual), polymerase chain reaction amplification of mitochondrial genes, Sanger sequencing, and purification followed by data analysis using various softwares. Results: Haplotype analysis of the COX I gene unveiled a total eight and three haplotypes from the Aravali and Ankleshwar populations, respectively, with haplotype diversity (Hd) of 92.70 % for the Aravali and 34.50% for the Ankleshwar breed. Haplotype analysis of the Cyt b gene revealed a total of four haplotypes from the Aravali population with 60% Hd and no polymorphism in Ankleshwar breed. The phylogenetic analysis uncovered Red Jungle Fowl and Gray Jungle Fowl as prime roots for both populations and all domestic chicken breeds. Conclusion: Study findings indicated high genetic variability in Aravali chicken populations with COX I mitochondrial marker being more informative for evaluating genetic diversity in chickens.

17 Pág. Departamento de ​Mejora Genética Animal (INIA), Genomic relationship matrices are used to obtain genomic inbreeding coefficients. However, there are several methodologies to compute these matrices and there is still an unresolved debate on which one provides the best estimate of inbreeding. In this study, we investigated measures of inbreeding obtained from five genomic matrices, including the Nejati-Javaremi allelic relationship matrix (FNEJ), the Li and Horvitz matrix based on excess of homozygosity (FL&H), and the VanRaden (methods 1, FVR1, and 2, FVR2) and Yang (FYAN) genomic relationship matrices. We derived expectations for each inbreeding coefficient, assuming a single locus model, and used these expectations to explain the patterns of the coefficients that were computed from thousands of single nucleotide polymorphism genotypes in a population of Iberian pigs., This work was carried out with funding from the Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación, Spain (CGL2016-75904-C2, PID2020-114426GB-C22), the European Commission Horizon 2020 (H2020) Framework Programme through grant agreement no 727315 MedAID project (Mediterranean Aquaculture Integrated Development), Xunta de Galicia (ED431C 2020-05) and Fondos FEDER.R. Pong-Wong is funded by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program under the Grant Agreement n°772787 (SMARTER) and the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council through Institute Strategic Programme Grant funding (BBS/E/D/30002275)

The cercariae of avian blood flukes Trichobilharzia szidati (Digenea, Schistosomatidae) are known to cause cercarial allergic dermatitis (“swimmer’s itch”) in humans. Global epidemics can have significant impacts on local tourism-related economies in recreational areas. Little is known about the genetic polymorphism of the parasite population, or about the variability of the non-coding regions of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and the possibility of using this as a genetic marker. The T. szidati cercariae were collected over 7 years from 33 naturally infected Lymnaea stagnalis snails from five sites at two neighboring lakes in Belarus. We investigated the variability of the short (SNR) and long (LNR) non-coding regions of mt DNA and the genetic diversity within the 1125-bp sequences of the gene for subunit 1 of cytochrome c oxidase (cox1). In the SNR sequences, we found only length variability caused by changes in the number of bases in the mononucleotide tracts T6–T8. LNR demonstrates high variability in nucleotide sequence length (182–260 bp) depending on the presence of two long deletions of 59 and 78 nucleotides. Both mitochondrial loci (LNR and cox1) are characterized by high haplotype diversity (H = 0.922 and H = 1.0, respectively); the nucleotide diversity is significantly higher for LNR (π = 1.926 ± 0.443) compared to cox1 (π = 0.704 ± 0.059). Phylogenetic reconstructions based on the variability of each of the loci (LNR and cox1) and their concatenated sequences revealed their shallow structure and the absence of a correlation between the distribution of single-nucleotide polymorphisms and the geographic origin of parasites from two Belarusian lakes. We identified at last four weakly sublineages in the phylogenetic pattern of T. szidati. The carriers of each deletion have specific patterns for each of the two loci and form their own phylogeographic sublineages. An association between two fixed LNR substitutions and a fixed non-synonymous substitution in cox1 was found in four representatives of one lineage that had a short deletion in the LNR. This study clarified the phylogeographic structure of the Belarusian population of T. szidati. Our data provide the basis for the use two mt markers in large-scale population studies of the parasite, as well as for studying the molecular evolution of coding and non-coding mtDNA in trematodes.