Molecular characterization of Goats from Saudi Arabia using microsatellite markers

This study is undertaken for genetic characterization of local Saudi goat populations for maintaining genetic variability of livestock population. Genomic DNA was extracted from three goat populations namely Ardi, Hollandi and Shami and subjected for genotyping using eighteen recommended microsatellite markers. The average values obtained for number of private alleles, effective number of alleles and different alleles 2.071, 5.343 and 9.389, respectively. The expected and observed heterozygosity values were 0.757 and 0.913, respectively. F- values were 0.081, −0.115, −0.18 and Shannon's Information Index was found to be 1.751. All loci were highly differed from Hardy-Weinburg Equilibrium and an average migrant’s value was 4.302. The maximum value was obtained between Hollandi and Ardi (8.474) and the value was extremely low between Shami and Ardi (2.518). Pairwise population of Fst and Nei's Genetic Distance showed very close relationship between Hollandi and Ardi goat population than between this population with the Shami. STRUCTURE software revealed 3 clusters at K = 3 in goat population. The present findings revealed genetic variations in Hollandi and Ardi populations. Molecular characterization of Saudi goats is important for maintaining and improving genetic resources.