Open AccessComparative genetic diversity in a sample of pony breeds from the U.K. and North America: a case study in the conservation of global genetic resources
Author(s) -
Winton Clare L.,
Plante Yves,
Hind Pamela,
McMahon Robert,
Hegarty Matthew J.,
McEwan Neil R.,
DaviesMorel Mina C. G.,
Morgan Charly M.,
Powell Wayne,
Nash Deborah M.
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
ecology and evolution
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.17
H-Index - 63
ISSN - 2045-7758
DOI - 10.1002/ece3.1562
Subject(s) - pony , breed , genetic diversity , geography , genealogy , founder effect , microsatellite , evolutionary biology , population , biology , diversity (politics) , effective population size , irish , ethnology , zoology , demography , ecology , genetics , history , sociology , archaeology , anthropology , allele , haplotype , linguistics , philosophy , gene
Abstract Most species exist as subdivided ex situ daughter population(s) derived from a single original group of individuals. Such subdivision occurs for many reasons both natural and manmade. Traditional British and Irish pony breeds were introduced to North America (U.S.A. and Canada) within the last 150 years, and subsequently equivalent breed societies were established. We have analyzed selected U.K. and North American equivalent pony populations as a case study for understanding the relationship between putative source and derived subpopulations. Diversity was measured using mitochondrial DNA and a panel of microsatellite markers. Genetic signatures differed between the North American subpopulations according to historical management processes. Founder effect and stochastic drift was apparent, particularly pronounced in some breeds, with evidence of admixture of imported mares of different North American breeds. This demonstrates the importance of analysis of subpopulations to facilitate understanding the genetic effects of past management practices and to lead to informed future conservation strategies.