Cover Image
QR Code

Genetic diversity and population structure of alpacas (Vicugna pacos) in Peru: A microsatellite analysis

This study evaluated the genetic diversity and population structure of Vicugna pacos (Huacaya alpacas) from two contrasting breeding contexts in Junin, Peru: the genetically managed herd of INIA’s Santa Ana Experimental Station (Suitucancha) and the community-based herd of Huayre, where natural, unr...

Full description

Main Authors: Peralta, Wilber, Nestares Palomino, Agustin, Gamarra Reyes, Julyssa del Pilar, Rojas, Miler, Sullca, Juan, Estrada Cañari, Richard
Format: Artículo
Language:Inglés
Published: MDPI 2025
Subjects:
Vicugna pacos
Genetic diversity
Population structure
Microsatellites
Alpaca
Peru
Andean livestock
https://purl.org/pe-repo/ocde/ford#4.04.00
Alpaca; Diversidad genética; Marcadores moleculares; Mejoramiento genético; Conservación genética; Estructura poblacional; Sistemas de producción animal
Online Access:http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12955/2757
https://doi.org/10.3390/d17050353
Summary:This study evaluated the genetic diversity and population structure of Vicugna pacos (Huacaya alpacas) from two contrasting breeding contexts in Junin, Peru: the genetically managed herd of INIA’s Santa Ana Experimental Station (Suitucancha) and the community-based herd of Huayre, where natural, unregulated mating practices are common. An external reference population from Quimsachata was also included. Genetic diversity parameters revealed high allelic richness and heterozygosity within all populations. Analyses of molecular variance (AMOVA), principal coordinate analysis (PCoA), Bayesian clustering, and phylogenetic reconstruction indicated moderate genetic differentiation between Suitucancha and Huayre, likely influenced by the use of selected males under controlled mating in Suitucancha versus natural, unregulated group mating in Huayre, which facilitates broader gene flow. The Quimsachata group displayed distinct genetic characteristics, likely reflecting limited gene flow due to its role as a germplasm conservation nucleus under closed reproductive management. These results reflect how differences in reproductive management may influence population structure in alpacas.

Similar Items