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Published on: February 20, 2012
Random amplified polymorphic markers as indicator for genetic conservation program in Iranian pheasant (Phasianus
Ghorban Elyasi Zarringhabaie1, Arash Javanmard, Ommolbanin Pirahary
1Department of Animal Science, East Azarbaijan Research Center for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Tabriz, Iran.
Thescientificworldjournal
|September 25, 2012
Summary
Genetic similarity between wild Iranian and captive Azerbaijan pheasants was assessed using PCR-RAPD markers. Results indicate both pheasant populations share a common genetic origin, suggesting they are subpopulations of a single group.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Zoology
- Biodiversity Conservation
Background:
- Pheasants are important game birds and indicators of ecosystem health.
- Understanding genetic diversity is crucial for effective conservation strategies.
- Wild Iranian and captive Azerbaijan pheasant populations represent distinct management units.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the genetic similarity between wild Iranian and captive Azerbaijan pheasant populations.
- To assess genetic diversity within these pheasant populations using molecular markers.
- To provide data for informing conservation and breeding programs for Iranian pheasants.
Main Methods:
- DNA extraction from 28 pheasant individuals (wild Iran and captive Azerbaijan).
- Polymerase Chain Reaction - Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (PCR-RAPD) technique utilizing 15 arbitrary primers.
- Electrophoresis to analyze DNA fragments, identifying polymorphic bands and genetic variation.
Main Results:
- Five primers yielded 65 distinct DNA bands, with 59 being polymorphic.
- Polymorphism rates ranged from 81% (OPC15) to 100% (OPC5, OPC16).
- Overall genetic variation between the two groups was non-significant (8.12%); wild Iranian birds exhibited higher genetic diversity than captive Azerbaijan birds.
Conclusions:
- Wild Iranian and captive Azerbaijan pheasant populations share a similar genetic origin, likely representing subpopulations.
- The findings support the need for integrated conservation strategies to enhance Iran's biodiversity.
- This study provides foundational data for future breeding and conservation programs for the Iranian pheasant gene pool.

