Genetic characterization of the Akkaraman, Morkaraman and Karayaka sheep through microsatellite variation

Genotypes have to be controlled periodically and necessary precautions should be taken in order to ensure that animal biodiversity is not lost. In this study, the genotypes of the Akkaraman, Karayaka and Morkaraman species from among Turkey’s local sheep were examined at 7 different microsatellite loci. The average allele counts are close to each other and were determined as 8,905±0,483. Whereas the PIC values ranged from between 0,507-0,794 at an average of 0,705. The He and Ho values used to calculate genetic diversity were determined on average as 0,734±0,023 and 0,509±0,038 respectively. According to the Fisher-Exact test result, the populations are not in HWE (P<0.001). Whereas the FIS values that show inter- population genetic diversity were determined as 0,353±0,092 (KRY), 0,328±0,095 (MRK) and 0,237±0,059 (AKK) respectively. In addition, Population Assignment and Principal Coordinate Analysis graphs were formed. When the pairwise FST and Nm, NeiuD,SHUA and G Statistics values used to calculate the genetic similarities and differences are examined, it is observed that the closest relations in terms of genetics is among AKK-KRY followed respectively by AKK-MRK and KRY-MRK.