Comparison of microsatellite and blood group diversity among different genotypes of cattle

Abstract

Genetic variability and relationships among five cattle breeds (Holstein, Pinzgau, Limousin, Slovak Spotted and Charolais) bred in the Slovak Republic were investigated separately using 11 microsatellite markers and 61 blood group systems. Allele frequency, heterozygosity (H O , H E ) and PIC values were investigated. F-statistics were computed separately. For microsatellite markers F IS , F IT , F ST and for blood groups H S , H T , G ST parameters were calculated. Microsatellite and blood group comparison showed similar results by F-statistics but some differences were marked using the other methods. Both methods were able to detect close relation between Slovak Pinzgau and Slovak Spotted cattle breeds. Their relation was confirmed by genetic distance, principal component analysis (PCA) and coefficient of admixture (mY). Important divergences between different markers used in the study were observed by the characterisation of Limousin and Charolais breeds. Key words: Biodiversity, microsatellite, F-statistics, blood groups, cattleIn accordance with an updated breeding programme in Slovakia, selection has been focused on increased milk production, enhanced milk protein content and exterior improvement of cattle (increased body frame, improved udder and extremities) and enhanced meat efficiency in combined utility breeds (mainly improvements of the muscular system and thus of slaughter utility values).At present the cattle population of the Slovak Republic includes approximately 34% Holstein cattle, represented mainly by crosses with a hereditary ratio of more than 50%, 52% Slovak Spotted cattle, 13% Slovak Pinzgau