Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1 Scientific Researcher, Department of Biotechnology, Animal Science Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization, Karaj, Iran.
2 Associate Professor, Department of Biotechnology, Animal Science Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization, Karaj, Iran
3 Associate Professor, Department of Biotechnology, Animal Science Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization, Karaj, Iran.
Abstract
The Arabian horse is one of the oldest breeds worldwide, playing a key role in the improvement of many other breeds. This study aimed to investigate the dynamics of genetic diversity in the Iranian Arabian horse population across five consecutive generations (1998–2022). A total of 14,865 horses from seven provinces were sampled, and 11 ISAG-recommended microsatellite markers were analyzed using Multiplex PCR. Results revealed a generally high level of genetic diversity in the population. Among the markers, VHL20 and AHT4 showed the highest stability with observed heterozygosity of 0.788 and 0.786, respectively, while ASB2 was identified as the least diverse. The mean number of observed alleles was 10.29 ± 0.331, ranging from 15.6 in ASB17 to 7.2 in HTG4. Temporal analysis showed a decline in allele number (from 10.363 in the second generation to 9.909 in the fifth) and in observed heterozygosity (from 0.713 to 0.706). Although genetic differentiation between generations was negligible (Fst ≤ 0.05), the inbreeding coefficient increased to 0.029 in the fifth generation. Overall, the Iranian Arabian horse population demonstrates high genetic diversity, stable population structure, and relative homogeneity, indicating generally effective breeding management. Nevertheless, the observed reduction in diversity and rise in inbreeding highlight the need for targeted genetic management and continuous monitoring to prevent further loss of variation and to ensure long-term sustainability and health of the breed. This study provides the first comprehensive report on the genetic dynamics of successive generations of Iranian Arabian horses and offers a valuable basis for developing conservation strategies.
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