Elucidating genetic diversity and population structure of Corriedale sheep through pedigree analysis

The population structure and genetic diversity of Corriedale sheep were studied from 6060 pedigree records using ENDOG version 4.8 software package. The founder genome (fg) and non-founder genome (fng) were estimated as 9.80 and 6.7, respectively. The fg/fa ratio of 0.754 indicated that 75.4% of the founder genetic diversity was retained in the reference population. The average genetic conservation index (GCI) was 6.81 ± 0.07%, with males higher than females, i.e. 7.05 ± 0.11 vs 6.60 ± 0.11%, respectively. The findings indicate moderate genetic erosion in the reference population associated with a long generation interval, high inbreeding and relatedness. The genetic base is limited, with merely five individuals accounting for 50% of the gene pool. The presence of 75.4% initial genetic diversity is encouraging to implement structured breeding programs aimed at minimizing inbreeding, maintaining genetic variability and ensuring the sustainable utilization of the Corriedale sheep genetic resource.