Breeding History Research Articles

The history of the breeding of Clematis (Clematis L.) in the M. M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden, NAS of Ukraine

Purpose. Investigate the history of Clematis breeding in the M. M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden (NBG), NAS of Ukraine, determine the main directions of hybrid Clematis breeding work. Results. It was established that the result of more than 16 years of breeding Clematis in the NBG was the selection of the 61 perspective hybrid, 42 of which, the most perspective, were assigned names. Of these, large­flowered varieties are the most numerous according to the distribution of variety groups in the current Royal Horticultural Society of Great Britain classification. In particular, Late Large­flowered account for about 40% of the total and Early Large­flowered for about 29%. Small­flowered hybrids make up the smaller part, of which about 26% belong to the Viticella group and one hybrid (‘Sputnik’) to the Integrifolia. The known directions of distribution of hybrid Сlematis of the NBG breeding indicate the possibility of their successful cultivation both in continental and maritime areas with a high level of humidity in the temperate zone and in the dry Mediterranean climate of the subtropical climate zone, which reveals their significant adaptive potential. Conclusions. Obtaining varieties of hybrid Clematis of domestic breeding is important for the implementation of sustainable horticulture practices on the territory of Ukraine, since a significant part of the modern introduced assortment of Clematis raises doubts about their adaptability to the local climate, and requires additional research into their adaptive potential. A successful combination in vertical landscaping of NBG­bred Clematis belonging to different varietal groups can ensure continuous flowering from May to the end of the season. These unique characteristics of Clematis ensure the creation of not only environmentally sustainable, but also visually appealing spaces that will contribute to the overall health and beauty of the urban environment.

Chloroplast genome sequencing and divergence analysis of 18 Pyrus species: insights into intron length polymorphisms and evolutionary processes.

Pears constitute an essential temperate crop and are primarily produced through interspecific hybridization owing to self-incompatibility that complicates their breeding history. To address this, we sequenced the complete chloroplast (cp) genomes of 18 Pyrus and one Malus species using the Illumina HiSeq4000 platform. The cp genomes ranged from 159,885 bp to 160,153bp and exhibited a conserved circular DNA structure with an average GC content of 36.5%. Each cp genome contained 127 genes, including 83 protein-coding, 36 tRNA, and 8 rRNA genes. Divergence analysis with mVISTA showed high conservation in the coding regions and notable variations in the non-coding regions. All species shared 17 intron-containing genes, with ycf3 and clpP each having two introns. Five intron-containing genes (ndhB, rpl2, rps12, trnA-UGC, and trnE-UUC) were located in the inverted repeat regions, while trnL-UAA was located in the large single-copy region, with conserved intron lengths across Pomoideae. We identified polymorphic intron sequences in the rpl22, petB, clpP, ndhA, and rps16 genes and designed primers for these regions. Notably, the two Pyrus ussuriensis accessions Doonggeullebae and Cheongdangrori showed intron-length polymorphisms despite being classified as the same species. Phylogenetic analysis of the cp genome sequences revealed two major clusters, indicating distinct maternal lineages and evolutionary origins. This study underscores the importance of cp gene polymorphisms in P. fauriei, P. calleryana, P. ussuriensis, and P. pyrifolia, providing valuable insights into Pyrus evolution as well as aiding in the conservation and breeding of pear germplasm.

Unravelling the complex origin and breeding history of modern roses.

Unravelling the complex origin and breeding history of modern roses.

Haplotype-resolved genome assembly and resequencing provide insights into the origin and breeding of modern rose.

Modern rose (Rosa hybrida) is a recently formed interspecific hybrid and has become one of the most important and widely cultivated ornamentals. Here we report the haplotype-resolved chromosome-scale genome assembly of the tetraploid R. hybrida 'Samantha' ('JACmantha') and a genome variation map of 233 Rosa accessions involving various wild species, and old and modern cultivars. Homologous chromosomes of 'Samantha' exhibit frequent homoeologous exchanges. Population genomic and genomic composition analyses reveal the contributions of wild Rosa species to modern roses and highlight that R. odorata and its derived cultivars are important contributors to modern roses, much like R. chinensis 'Old Blush'. Furthermore, selective sweeps during modern rose breeding associated with major agronomic traits, including continuous and recurrent flowering, double flower, flower senescence and disease resistance, are identified. This study provides insights into the genetic basis of modern rose origin and breeding history, and offers unprecedented genomic resources for rose improvement.

The goat pan-genome reveals patterns of gene loss during domestication

BackgroundUnveiling genetic diversity features and understanding the genetic mechanisms of diverse goat phenotypes are pivotal in facilitating the preservation and utilization of these genetic resources. However, the total genetic diversity within a species can’t be captured by the reference genome of a single individual. The pan-genome is a collection of all the DNA sequences that occur in a species, and it is expected to capture the total genomic diversity of the specific species.ResultsWe constructed a goat pan-genome using map-to-pan assemble based on 813 individuals, including 723 domestic goats and 90 samples from their wild relatives, which presented a broad regional and global representation. In total, 146 Mb sequences and 974 genes were identified as absent from the reference genome (ARS1.2; GCF_001704415.2). We identified 3,190 novel single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) using the pan-genome analysis. These novel SNPs could properly reveal the population structure of domestic goats and their wild relatives. Presence/absence variation (PAV) analysis revealed gene loss and intense negative selection during domestication and improvement.ConclusionsOur research highlights the importance of the goat pan-genome in capturing the missing genetic variations. It reveals the changes in genomic architecture during goat domestication and improvement, such as gene loss. This improves our understanding of the evolutionary and breeding history of goats.

Revolutionizing plant breeding: a historical perspective from cross-pollination to gene editing

The history of plant breeding can be broadly divided into four eras: the Pre-Mendelian era (before 1900), the Mendelian era (1900-1920), the post-Mendelian era (1921-1950), and the Modern era (after 1950). Significant milestones include the release of the first hybrid maize varieties in 1961, the first sorghum hybrid (CSH-1) in 1964, the first bajra hybrid (HB-1) in 1965, and the first pigeon pea hybrid (ICPH-8) in 1991. Achieving a world with zero hunger requires a sustainable increase in food production and distribution and elimination of poverty. This goal demands scientific, logistical, and humanitarian approaches to ensure food security from farmers and breeders to policymakers and governments. Conventional breeding techniques alone are insufficient to meet the challenges posed by climate change, biotic and abiotic stress, and the growing global population projected to reach 10 billion by 2050. Novel plant breeding techniques, such as genome editing, speed breeding, and omics technology integration, offer precise, cost-effective, and less time-consuming solutions. These techniques enable the editing of agriculturally significant genes, promoting hybrid seed production, induced apomixis, and resistance to biotic and abiotic stress. Genome editing technologies have evolved, with CRISPR/Cas9 and its variants, base editing (BE), and prime editing (PE) playing pivotal roles in generating transgene-free plants. These advancements have significant implications for crop improvement, meeting food and nutrition security, and catering to regional preferences. Syngenta's initiative to open rights to CRISPR-based technologies through the Shoots by Syngenta platform exemplifies the collaborative efforts needed to drive agricultural innovation and sustainability. The review discusses the current regulatory regimes governing genome-edited crops, prospects of new tools such as DNA-free editing systems and nanotechnology, and their applicability in crop improvement. A multidisciplinary approach involving political, social, economic, and scientific stakeholders is essential for the successful adoption of genome editing technologies, which will ultimately make agriculture a lucrative profession and attract youth to the field.

SAAZ—Fine Aroma Hop Pedigree: A Review of Current Knowledge

The hop variety Saaz is well known over the world and is usually used for brewing of lager beers. Recently, the new related varieties Saaz Late, Brilliant, Comfort, and Shine were registered. Information about these varieties is splintered and often available only in the Czech language in regional journals. This review (i) summarizes previously published data (breeding history, genetic data, basic parameters such as yield, sensory profile, concentrations of key technologically important hop compounds), (ii) presents long-term data (2004–2021), and (iii) shows similarities/differences among these varieties. All Saaz varieties are typically fine aroma hops with a relatively low content of alpha bitter acids ranging from 5 to 7 wt%, cohumulone amounts lower than 30% rel., and hop oil content of about 1.0 wt%. Even though the new varieties have no identical chemical parameters to the original Saaz, they can substitute this established standard as well. Furthermore, the varieties Saaz Comfort and Saaz Shine show high resistance to Pseudoperonospora humuli as well as very good tolerance to drought.

Whole-genome resequencing reveals melanin deposition candidate genes of Luning chicken

BackgroundMelanin in the black-bone chicken’s body is considered the material basis for its medicinal effects and is an economically important trait. Therefore, improving the melanin content is a crucial focus in the breeding process of black-bone chickens. Luning chickens are black-bone chickens, with black beaks, skin, and meat. To investigate the genetic diversity and molecular mechanisms of melanin deposition in Luning chickens, we conducted whole-genome resequencing to analyze their breeding history and identify candidate genes influencing their black phenotype, along with transcriptome sequencing of dorsal skin tissues of male Luning chickens.ResultsPopulation structure analysis revealed that Luning chickens tend to cluster independently and are closely related to Tibetan chickens. Runs of homozygosity analysis suggested potential inbreeding in the Luning chicken and Tibetan chicken population. By combining genetic differentiation index (Fst) and nucleotide diversity (θπ) ratios, we pinpointed selected regions associated with melanin deposition. Gene annotation identified 540 genes with the highest Fst value in LOC101750371 and LOC121108313, located on the 68.24–68.58 Mb interval of chromosome Z. Combining genomic and transcriptomic data, we identified ATP5E, EDN3, and LOC101750371 as candidate genes influencing skin color traits in black-bone chickens.ConclusionsThis study characterized the evolutionary history of Luning chickens and preliminarily excavated candidate genes influencing the genetic mechanism of pigmentation in black-bone chickens, providing valuable insights for the study of animal melanin deposition.

Triple-color FISH chromosome constitution and genome size analyses confirmed the ploidy of newly developed ten Hibiscus sp. cultivars with different breeding history

Triple-color FISH chromosome constitution and genome size analyses confirmed the ploidy of newly developed ten Hibiscus sp. cultivars with different breeding history

IDENTIFICATION CANDIDATE SSR, SNPs AND GENES ASSOCIATED SALT TOLERANCE IN ASIATIC COTTON (GOSSYPIUM ARBOREUM)

Soil is a vital resource for feeding the growing global population. Increased salt tolerance of perennial species used for fodder or fuel production is an important and natural method for controlling the spread of secondary salinity. This study was carried out to identify marker-trait association analysis using 7 traits and one comprehensive index of salt tolerance (CIST) and SSR and SNP markers for 215 accessions of Asiatic cotton (G. arboretum). The traits related to salt tolerance like germination rate (GR), fresh weight (FW), stem length (SL), water content (WC), chlorophyll content (ChlC), electric conduct (EC) and methylene dioxyamphetamine (MDA), of 215 cotton accessions were screened out using 150mM NaCl concentration after 7 days of seed growth. According to a comprehensive index of salt tolerance (CIST), 215 accessions were mainly categorized into four groups, and 11 accessions (top 5%) with high salinity tolerance were selected for breeding. Group 1 contained 12 accessions that were sensitive to high salt treatment (<0.6), group 2 contained 26 accessions that were moderate tolerant to salt treatment (0.6～1.5), group 3 includes 153 accession that were tolerant (1.5～2.5), and group 4 had 24 accessions that were highly tolerant to salt treatment (>2.5). The natural population of 215 accessions of G. arboretum was first classified into 3 main groups by phylogenic analysis, in which Group 2 (G2) and Group 3 (G3) represented the Yellow River and Yangtze River accessions respectively, while Group 1 (G1) contained mixed cotton accessions which belongs to different cotton growing areas in China. The grouped accessions results were largely congruent with the breeding history and ecological region, which indicates the extensive genetic diversity of G. arboretum accessions both in phenotype and genotype. The relative value (R) of the traits was used for marker-trait association analysis. Twenty-two strong SSR marker-trait associations were obtained with strict significant P value i.e. P< 0.01 and four makers including NAU1023, NAU1099, JESPR222, and NAU2783 were significantly related to salt tolerance. The marker NAU2783 was highest associated (P= 1.98E-12) with REC, and with the highest phenotype variation of 20.87%. Some markers are significantly associated with more than two traits. MUSS020 was significantly (P<0.01) related with RFW, and RMDA, NAU1375 was associated with RFW and RSL, while NAU3468 was significantly associated with RFW, RGR, and RWC. By applying the threshold of –log10 P≥4.0, the 2062 SNP markers covered all 13 chromosomes and 100 SNP markers locations that were unknown. Among these 2062 marker‐trait associations, 61 markers were associated with RGR, 187 markers were associated with RFW, 255 markers were associated with RSL, 370 markers were associated with RWC, 190 markers were associated with RChlC, 583 markers were associated with REC, 335 markers were associated with RMDA and 81 markers were associated with CIST. The nine SNP rich regions analysis revealed 143 polymorphisms that distributed 40 candidate genes and significantly associated with salt tolerance. Notably, two SNP rich regions on chromosome 7 were found to be significantly associated with two salinity related traits, RFW and RSL, by the threshold of −log10P ≥ 6.0, and two candidate genes (Cotton_A_37775 and Cotton_A_35901) related to two key SNPs (Ca7_33607751 and Ca7_77004962) were possibly associated with salt tolerance in G. arboreum. The classification information derived from these studies may be used to facilitate the development of salt tolerant cotton accessions that could give economic yield in salinity prone areas. The strong marker-trait association results might provide insights for marker-assistant selecting salt-tolerant varieties and will be useful for future cotton breeding programs.

Mitochondrial DNA of the Arabian Camel Camelus dromedarius.

The Camelidae family, ranging from southwest Asia to north Africa, South America, and Australia, includes key domesticated species adapted to diverse environments. Among these, the Arabian camel (Camelus dromedarius) is vital to the cultural and economic landscape of the Arabian Peninsula. This review explores the mitochondrial DNA of the dromedary camel, focusing on the D-loop region to understand its genetic diversity, maternal inheritance, and evolutionary history. We aim to investigate the unique characteristics of Arabian camel mtDNA, analyze the D-loop for genetic diversity and maternal lineage patterns, and explore the implications of mitochondrial genomic studies for camel domestication and adaptation. Key findings on mtDNA structure and variation highlight significant genetic differences and adaptive traits. The D-loop, essential for mtDNA replication and transcription, reveals extensive polymorphisms and haplotypes, providing insights into dromedary camel domestication and breeding history. Comparative analyses with other camelid species reveal unique genetic signatures in the Arabian camel, reflecting its evolutionary and adaptive pathways. Finally, this review integrates recent advancements in mitochondrial genomics, demonstrating camel genetic diversity and potential applications in conservation and breeding programs. Through comprehensive mitochondrial genome analysis, we aim to enhance the understanding of Camelidae genetics and contribute to the preservation and improvement of these vital animals.

Dyspnea with multiple bilateral lung opacities on CT scan

A 58-year-old man was admitted with a typical presentation of acute left heart failure. However, the patient showed a partial response to the anti-heart failure therapy. Following admission, a continuous fever was monitored, and a CT scan revealed that multiple opacities on bilateral lungs had progressed. Bronchoscopy was performed, and Coxiella burnetii was detected by Metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) in bronchoalveolar lavage (BALF), and transbronchial lung biopsy showed organizing pneumonia. Considering that the patient had a history of rabbit breeding and delivery, with some newborn rabbits dying before he became ill, organizing pneumonia secondary to Q fever pneumonia was diagnosed. Anti-Q fever treatment was initiated and the patient's temperature returned to normal. Glucocorticoid was administered after adequate treatment for Q fever. The patient's symptom of dyspnea relieved soon and opacities on CT scan were absorbed remarkably. The final diagnosis was organizing pneumonia secondary to Q fever pneumonia accompanied with left heart failure.

Global and Local Ancestry and its Importance: A Review.

The fastest way to significantly change the composition of a population is through admixture, an evolutionary mechanism. In animal breeding history, genetic admixture has provided both short-term and long-term advantages by utilizing the phenomenon of complementarity and heterosis in several traits and genetic diversity, respectively. The traditional method of admixture analysis by pedigree records has now been replaced greatly by genome-wide marker data that enables more precise estimations. Among these markers, SNPs have been the popular choice since they are cost-effective, not so laborious, and automation of genotyping is easy. Certain markers can suggest the possibility of a population's origin from a sample of DNA where the source individual is unknown or unwilling to disclose their lineage, which are called Ancestry-Informative Markers (AIMs). Revealing admixture level at the locus-specific level is termed as local ancestry and can be exploited to identify signs of recent selective response and can account for genetic drift. Considering the importance of genetic admixture and local ancestry, in this mini-review, both concepts are illustrated, encompassing basics, their estimation/identification methods, tools/software used and their applications.

Change of Flavonoid Content in Wheatgrass in a Historic Collection of Wheat Cultivars.

Wheatgrass is recognized for its nutritional and medicinal properties, partly attributed to its flavonoid content. The objective of this study was to assess the flavonoid content and antioxidant properties of wheatgrass obtained from a wide range of 145 wheat cultivars, which included Chinese landraces (CL), modern Chinese cultivars (MCC), and introduced modern cultivars (IMC). The flavonoids were extracted using a solution of 80% methanol, and their content was evaluated using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS). The results revealed the assessed cultivars showed significant variation in their total flavonoid content (TFC), with MCCs generally having higher amounts compared to CLs. PCA analysis demonstrated clear variations in flavonoid profiles between different cultivar groups, emphasizing the evolutionary inconsistencies in wheat breeding. The antioxidant assays, ABTS, DPPH, and FRAP, exhibited robust abilities for eliminating radicals, which were found to be directly associated with the amounts of flavonoids. In addition, this study investigated the correlation between the content of flavonoids and the ability to resist powdery mildew in a collection of mutated wheat plants. Mutants exhibiting heightened flavonoid accumulation demonstrated a decreased severity of powdery mildew, suggesting that flavonoids play a protective role against fungal infections. The results highlight the potential of wheatgrass as a valuable source of flavonoids that have antioxidant and protective effects. This potential is influenced by the genetic diversity and breeding history of wheatgrass. Gaining insight into these connections can guide future wheat breeding endeavors aimed at improving nutritional value and in strengthening disease resistance. The current finding provides critical information for developing wheatgrass with high flavonoid content and antioxidant activity.

History of sorghum breeding and seed production in the ARC “Donskoy”

The current paper has presented brief information about the establishment of a sorghum breeding and seed production school at the Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution “Agricultural Research Center “Donskoy” (formerly the State Scientific Institution All-Russian Research Institute of Grain Crops named after I.G. Kalinenko, as well as the All-Russian Research Institute of Sorghum). A great contribution to the development of the breeding program for this crop was made by famous breeders Ya.I. Isakov, B.N. Malinovsky, N.A. Shepel. Under their leadership, there was identified and developed a significant number of varieties and hybrids of grain, sweet, grass and broom sorghum. Their experience given to subsequent breeders made it possible to develop present sorghum varieties and hybrids, which are currently included in the State List of Breeding Achievements approved for use in the Russian Federation and are widely used in agricultural production. Thus, since 2021, new highly productive varieties of sweet sorghum ‘Yuzhnoye’ and ‘Feniks’ have been included in the State List. Since 2023, there have been included the white grained sorghum variety ‘Esaul’ and the sorghum-Sudan hybrid ‘Dobrynya’. There have been developed and are currently undergoing the state variety testing the grain sorghum variety ‘Sotnik’ and the Sudan grass ‘Kudesnitsa’, the sorghumSudan hybrid ‘Gordey’, the sweet sorghum variety ‘Orfey’ and the hybrid ‘Duet’.

History of apple breeding and breeding achievements at FSBSO ARHCBAN

New apple varieties should possess a set of adaptive traits that provide yield, stable fruiting, and highly marketable fruits with a long period of postharvest storage, thus ensuring the profitability of their use in industrial plantings. According to the State Register, the central region of the Russian Federation is one of the leading regions in terms of the number of apple varieties approved for use. Long-term research of scientists and specialists from FSBSO ARHCBAN has greatly contributed to the development and improvement of the assortment both in the region and beyond. The key directions for apple breeding at the institution include improving winter hardiness, resistance to scab, and the columnar shape of the crown. The review article presents the history of shaping the directions for breeding work and modern achievements of FSBSO ARHCBAN in apple breeding, as well as an analysis of the long-term focused scientific activity of breeders. The most significant breeding results were achieved by Prof. V. Kichina, who, together with his students and followers, was the first in Russia to create several columnar apple varieties that offer high winter hardiness, resistance to scab, and marketable qualities of fruits (‘Dialog’, ‘Lukomor’, ‘Malyukha’, ‘Ostankino’, ‘President’, and ‘Chervonets’), as well as fundamentally new high-yielding varieties with a conventional crown shape that possess high adaptability and resistance to pathogens (‘Arkadik’, ‘Legendа’, ‘Marat Busurin’, and ‘Mayak Zagorye’). The article presents the main characteristics of breeding achievements of the last decades: tree crown shape; ripening time of fruits and their qualitative and quantitative indicators (tasting evaluation, average weight, shape, etc.); yield; resistance to abiotic and biotic factors. Data are presented on the use of apple varieties bred by FSBSO ARHCBAN both in agricultural production (on the basis of license agreements) and in scientific and technological cooperation with Russian National Research Universities (inclusion in breeding programs). The apple breeding activities conducted at FSBSO ARHCBAN are described, and the main directions for breeding work are outlined.

TREATMENT OF CLINICAL ANOESTRUS IN ARABIAN MARES BY A PROSTAGLANDIN F2 α|ή‎|‎ωϧΔΔ ‎‎|‎ ‎

A synthetic prostaglandin F2 α(PGF2 α) analogue, luprostiol* , was used in treatment of clinically anoestrus Arabian mares that suffered from abnormal persisting luteal function. Thirty two anoestrus mares were selected for this study after careful examination of their breeding history and a thorough genital examination which included rectal palpation of the genital tract and ovaries. The genital examination also included a vaginoscopy of the vagina and cervix. These mares were diagnosed as clinically anoestrus during the spring and summer months breeding season and received a single intramuscular injection of the prostaglandin F2 α. Twenty six mares (81%) responded to the treatment and came to oestrus within 2-4 days. Ovarian activity of the induced oestrus was monitored by rectal palpation and the mares were bred twice according to their follicular development. A total of 13 mares (54%) became pregnant as a result of the treatment and pregnancies were confirmed later by rectal palpation. This study reveals that the majority of non-cycling mares during the spring and summer months breeding season are in a prolonged luteal function rather than inactive ovaries or ‘true anoestrus. The study also demonstrates the efficiency of Iuprostiol in the treatment of clinically anoestrus mares.

Root exudation and rhizosphere microbial assembly are influenced by novel plant trait diversity in carrot genotypes

Root exudate composition can influence rhizosphere microbial recruitment and is tightly controlled by plant genetics. However, little research has profiled root exudate in vegetable crops or determined their role in rhizosphere microbial community and metabolite composition. It is also not well understood how root exudates and resulting rhizosphere dynamics shift across plant trait diversity and with the development of novel crop genotypes. To address these knowledge gaps, this study paired metabolomics and microbiome analyses to evaluate associations between the composition of exudates, soil bacterial and fungal communities, and soil metabolites across four genotypes of organically produced carrot of differential breeding histories, including two experimental genotypes. Plant genotypes modified soil microbial diversity and composition, and differentially recruited bacterial taxa. Bacterial rhizosphere recruitment from bulk soil was genotype and root exudate-mediated, while fungal recruitment was not. Moreover, root exudate composition was distinct in an heirloom genotype and a novel nematode resistant genotype, compared to other genotypes tested. Root exudate and rhizosphere metabolite composition was decoupled, and soil metabolites more strongly associated with fungal than bacterial communities. Taken together, the results of this study suggest that novel crop trait diversity and breeding histories hold consequences for the functional potential of soils through the diversification of root exudate mediated plant-microbe interactions.

History, status and genetic characteristics of native cattle breeds from the Republic of Kazakhstan.

This work provides a comprehensive review of the history, status, and genetic characteristics of cattle breeds in Kazakhstan. The current breeding status is analysed, including information on popular breeds such as Kazakh white-headed, Auliekol, Alatau, Aulieata, and Kalmyk, their production and economic significance. An overview of genetic studies using DNA fingerprinting, microsatellites, and SNPs aimed at identifying unique characteristics, genetic diversity, and genes under selection, as well as markers of economically important and productive traits of Kazakh cattle breeds, is also provided. The study examined the genetic structure of the Kazakh white-headed and Alatau breeds based on whole-genome SNP genotyping. Unique genetic components characterizing Kazakhstan cattle breeds were described, and comparisons were made with genetic data from other breeds. Structural analysis showed that the Kazakh white-headed breed contains genetic components of the Hereford, Kalmyk, and Altai cattle. The Alatau breed has a composite structure, containing components of the Brown Swiss, Braunvieh, Kalmyk, and Holstein breeds. The results not only reveal the genetic diversity and characteristics of cattle breeds in Kazakhstan and the historical development and current state of animal husbandry in the country, but also emphasize the importance of further research to identify adaptive and unique genetic markers affecting economically important traits of local breeds.

Sex differences in pelvic size and shape in the striped field mouse from Slovakia

Morphometric analysis and evaluation of 260 striped field mice (Apodemus agrarius) were carried out to identify sexual size dimorphism in pelvic bones regarding the age of individuals and the reproductive history of females. Pelvic size was found to differ between subadult and adult individuals of both sexes. A comparison using the Mann–Whitney U test between the right and left parts of the pelvis showed statistically non-significant differences between the pelvis dimensions. In the inter-sexual comparison of both ages (subadult, adult), statistically significant differences were found for only four traits in adults: length of the coxal bone (LP1), width of the ischiopubis (WP1), length of the obturator foramen (LSF) and width of the obturator foramen (WSF). The two indices (WSF/LSF and WP1/LP2) evaluated clearly reflected changes in the pelvic shape, which were most pronounced in adult mice. For the group of subadult males and females, the differences in measured traits and indices were not as pronounced. Several analyses, such as the Mann–Whitney U test, principal component analysis (PCA) as well as discriminant analysis (DFA), showed sex differences in pelvic morphology and shape, although the two sexes overlapped. Similarly, one-way ANCOVA showed that there was a significant difference between the sexes for the adjusted means. Analyses showed that for a given body mass, it appears that females tend to have larger pelvises. Thus, the sexual dimorphism of females was related to pelvic size and shape in A. agrarius. The breeding history showed differences in pelvic dimensions in following direction: the nulliparous < primigravid < primiparous direction.