Abstract
Simple SummaryLocal animal breeds represent a national genetic heritage for every country. Creole free-range chickens have important cultural, historical, genetic, and economic roles in several countries. In Brazil, there is a lack of information regarding the genetic formation of local chicken breeds. These animals were brought to Brazil during colonization in the 16th century. Currently, Brazilian Creole chickens are highly adapted to the edaphoclimatic conditions of the country and are mostly reared by smallholders. In this study, we used microsatellite markers to determine the genetic composition of three chicken breeds from the northeast region of Brazil. Our results confirm the existence of interbreed genetic diversity and high genetic variability within the Brazilian Creole chickens studied. Furthermore, our findings show that the formation of these genetic groups had contributions from different ancestors. Our results will be useful to support the development of conservation programs, as well as the sustainable use and official recognition of these breeds.In this study, we aimed to evaluate the genetic diversity within and among chicken breeds from the northeast region of Brazil (states of Bahia and Piauí) using microsatellite markers. In addition, we assessed the identity and genetic relationships of chickens from Europe, Africa, and South America, as well as their influence on the formation of the Brazilian breeds. A total of 25 microsatellite markers and a panel containing 886 samples from 20 breeds (including the Brazilian chickens) were used in this study. Different statistical parameters were used to estimate the genetic diversity and relationship among the genetic groups studied. Our study indicates that the Brazilian Creole chickens have high genetic variability. The results show that chickens reared in the states of Bahia and Piauí could have originated from different ancestors. The Brazilian breeds studied have an evolutionary relationship with chickens from Portugal, Nigeria, Chile, and Spain. Our results will contribute directly to the conservation and recognition of Brazilian Creole chicken breeds and provide a solid basis for the demonstration of their genetic identity and genetic conservation of American Creole chicken populations.
Highlights
IntroductionLocal animal breeds are considered a national genetic heritage, and they are important
Local animal breeds are considered a national genetic heritage, and they are importantLocal animal breeds are considered a national genetic heritage, and they are important resources for the future of every country
The average values of genetic variability measured by Ho for the Brazilian chickens were 0.617 (CP), 0.642 (CAN), and 0.646 (PEL), while the estimates of He were
Summary
Local animal breeds are considered a national genetic heritage, and they are important. Local animal breeds are considered a national genetic heritage, and they are important resources for the future of every country. There is a great interest in the conservation and sustainable resources for the future of every country. There is a great interest in the conservation and sustainable use of those breeds worldwide. The knowledge of the genetic organization of local genetic resources use of those breeds worldwide. The knowledge of the genetic organization of local genetic resources increases their valuation and recognition. This information is valuable for the genetic increases their valuation and recognition This information is valuable for the genetic management and establishment of conservation programs. The protection of local breeds is the management and establishment of conservation programs. The protection of local breeds is the responsibility of each country, as determined by international agreements [1]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
