# Variability Survey at Different Genetic Markers as Effective Tools for the Management of the Endangered Breeds: The Case of the Sicilian Native Donkeys

## TL;DR

This study explores how genetic markers can help manage and preserve Sicilian native donkey breeds that are at risk of extinction.

## Contribution

The study demonstrates the use of molecular markers for managing genetic diversity in endangered donkey breeds.

## Key findings

- Traditional molecular markers like microsatellites and mtDNA are effective for genetic monitoring in Sicilian donkeys.
- The approach can be applied to other threatened breeds to support conservation efforts.
- Genetic variability assessments can inform breeding and conservation strategies.

## Abstract

The mechanization of agriculture has led to a sharp decline in the number of donkey breeds worldwide. However, Italy has a long tradition of donkey breeding, and Sicily still preserves three native breeds, all of which are currently at risk of extinction. This study employed various molecular markers to assess and manage the genetic diversity of these endangered Sicilian donkey breeds for conservation programs. This approach can be transferred to other threatened breeds.

Domestic donkeys (Equus africanus asinus) are an important livestock genetic resource that is currently considered at risk. The number of donkey breeds worldwide is declining due to their loss of function as working animals in rural communities. Local breeds with small populations, which are threatened by genetic erosion and are at risk of extinction, require urgent action to characterize and preserve their genetic diversity. As microarrays containing thousands of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are not yet available for these species, traditional molecular markers such as microsatellites and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) remain valuable tools for genetic monitoring and management. This study uses different molecular markers to assess and manage genetic variability in endangered Sicilian donkey breeds. This information can support breeding plans and mating schemes, as well as in situ and ex situ conservation programs. The practical application of molecular information in the conservation strategies for these breeds is briefly discussed, and the proposed approach is considered transferable to other threatened breeds.