Variability Survey at Different Genetic Markers as Effective Tools for the Management of the Endangered Breeds: The Case of the Sicilian Native Donkeys.

ABSTRACT: Domestic donkeys (Equus africanus asinus) are an important livestock genetic resource that is currently considered at risk. The number of donkey breeds worldwide is declining due to their loss of function as working animals in rural communities. Local breeds with small populations, which are threatened by genetic erosion and are at risk of extinction, require urgent action to characterize and preserve their genetic diversity. As microarrays containing thousands of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are not yet available for these species, traditional molecular markers such as microsatellites and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) remain valuable tools for genetic monitoring and management. This study uses different molecular markers to assess and manage genetic variability in endangered

SUBMITTER: Carlentini M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12785130 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature