Population genetics in multiple scales: Genetic microstructure of a cat population in Colombia

Abstract

Considering of multiples research of genetic in cats, the objective of this study was to compare the genetic diversity of the domestic cat population at different spatial and temporal scales. According to the administrative division of the city of Cali, 8 colonies (localities) were chosen, which together form 5 subpopulations within the city for sampling. The phenotype from each individual?s coat was recognized for the subsequent calculation of allele frequencies, Hardy-Weinberg (HW) equilibrium, genetic structure, and correlated genetic diversity and structure with antiquity in each neighborhood. The non-agouti allele obtained the highest frequencies, and the white allele had the lowest frequencies in all colonies and subpopulations; the manx allele was also reported. HW equilibrium was found in the orange locus, except for the Salomia, Sena and Santa Barbara colonies of the NW subpopulation. A significant association was found between the diversity of the tabby locus and antiquity and the differentiation of the colonies (FCT) with antiquity of colonies. In conclusion, domestic cats in the city of Cali behave as a single population, with incipient genetic microstructure phenomena, which are part of the natural dynamics of the population in their interaction with the urban environment.