Diversity, identity and influence of other breeds in the development of Creole populations of domestic animals
Creole breeds of the various livestock species mainly derive from animals imported to America from the Iberian Peninsula, starting in the early years of discovery and colonization. Creoles have undergone a long period of selective adaptation to a very diverse set of environmental conditions in the American continent, and over the last two centuries some Creole populations have been admixed with breeds originating from other European countries and India. In spite of the various threats undergone, some Creole populations are still maintained nowadays, especially in marginal regions, but they need to be better known, in order to recognize their identity and establish conservation programs. In this paper, we review the results published over the last five years by various Consortia established under the framework of the CONBIAND network, with the goal of studying the genetic diversity, structure and breed relationships in Creole breeds. In all species, Creole breeds reveal high levels of genetic diversity and clear signatures of their Iberian origin, even though many breeds also show signs of genetic erosion, due to either accumulated inbreeding or admixture with exotic breeds. The research conducted until now demonstrates that the vast majority of Creoles still maintain their own identity, even though they are seldom recognized and protected. These results can be used as a basis for recognition, conservation and genetic improvement of Creoles, which are the result of more than 500 years of selective adaptation.
| Main Authors: | , , , , , , , , , , |
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| Format: | Digital revista |
| Language: | spa |
| Published: |
Asociacion Latinoamericana de Produccion Animal
2017
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| Online Access: | https://ojs.alpa.uy/index.php/ojs_files/article/view/2574 |
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