Genetic variation among different springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis) colour variants

In this study, we aimed to 1) assess the level of genetic variation within and among the common, black, copper and white colour variants of springbok, and 2) investigate the possible genetic mechanisms involved in the coat colour of these variants. Portions of the mtDNA control region (CR) and two immune-linked Toll-like receptor (TLR4 and TLR7) genes were sequenced for the genetic diversity estimates. A 50 K Bovine SNP chip was also screened to assess the level of genetic diversity of a subset of samples. The complete melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) gene was targeted for the second aim. Comparable levels of diversity were identified across specimens. Pairwise genetic diversity analysis of the SNP data identified the white springbok as a unique group within springbok, with Bayesian clustering analysis supporting this observation. A possible reason for this clustering pattern was linked to the historical occurrence of white springbok in nature. The level of genetic diversity observed for each colour variant was associated with 1) the large historical and extant population sizes of springbok providing a deep genetic pool and/or 2) the management practices of the managers/farmers that are aimed at preventing or minimizing inbreeding and loss of genetic diversity. The MC1R assessment identified a nonsynonymous SNP (c. G902A) unique to white springbok (homozygous AA). A 24 bp deletion was observed in black, copper and king springbok colour variants. This deletion was complete for...
Source: Mammalian Biology - Category: Biology Source Type: research