Genetic variability and relationships of native Japanese chickens based on microsatellite DNA polymorphisms: Focusing on the natural monuments of Japan

In this experiment, 728 blood samples were collected from 22 breeds (28 populations) of native Japanese chickens that have been designated as Natural Monuments of Japan [Chabo, Gifu-Jidori (2 populations), Hinai-dori, Jitokko, Kinpa, Koeyoshi, Kuro-Kashiwa, Ko-Shamo (2 populations), Kawachi-Yakko, Minohikidori, Mie-Jidori, Ohiki, Onaga-dori, Oh-Shamo (2 populations), Satsuma-dori, Shoukoku (2 populations), Tosa-Jidori, Toumaru, Toutenkou, Ukokkei (2 populations), Uzurao and Yakido (2 populations)] and two foreign breeds (White Leghorn and Rhode Island Red) to examine the genetic variability and relationships by using microsatellite DNA polymorphisms. Genetic variabilities in 20 microsatellites examined varied depending on the populations. The mean number of alleles per locus, the proportion of the polymorphic loci, and the expected average heterozygosity ranged from 1.75 to 4.70, from 0.55 to 1.00, and from 0.21 to 0.67, respectively. Microsatellite alleles, being unique to a particular population, were detected in some breeds/populations. A phylogenetic tree was constructed based on the Dsub(A) genetic distance and using the neighbour-joining method. Using the tree, genetic relationships were examined between breeds/populations. Some were in accordance with earlier hypotheses, and some did not support earlier hypotheses.