Molecular characterization of Nagori cattle using microsatellite markers

Abstract

The present study estimates genetic variability in nagori cattle (n=30), a draught breed of India, by use of 15 microsatellite markers recommended by the Food and Agriculture Organization. Microsatellite genotypes were derived and allelic and genotypic frequencies, heterozygosities and gene diversity were estimated. A total of 123 alleles were distinguished by the 15 microsatellite markers used. All the microsatellites were highly polymorphic, with mean (± s.e.) allelic number of 8.2±1.143, ranging 2-14 per locus. The observed heterozygosity in the population ranged between 0.52 and 0.758, with mean (± s.e.) of 0.610 ± 0.019, indicating considerable genetic variation in this population.