Genetic characterization of autochthonous pig breeds from Spain with microsatellite markers

The European pig genetic resources are essentially formed from breeds belonging to two ancient strains: the Celtic type in north-central Europe and the Mediterranean type in the south. Both types were represented in Spain by native breeds, but today only the Iberian pig is completely developed. Other autochthonous breeds are rare, endangered or extinct. Population structure and genetic diversity in the Spanish native breeds of pigs Iberico (ten varieties), Chato Murciano, Negro Canario, Negro de Formentera e Ibiza, Celta and Euskal Txerria were analyzed by typing 25 microsatellite markers recommended by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Within and between breed genetic variation was estimated by heterozygosities, F-statistics estimate, genetic distances and assignment tests. The results of this study confirm that Spanish local breeds of pigs represent a very interesting reservoir of allelic diversity, even though the current levels of inbreeding observed in some of the studied breeds. Therefore, appropriate conservation efforts should be undertaken, such as adopting strategies aimed at minimizing inbreeding, to avoid further losses of genetic diversity.