Population structure analysis of Yeonsan Ogye using microsatellite markers

A retroviral insertion in the tyrosinase (TYR) gene is associated with the recessive white plumage color in the Yeonsan Ogye chicken

“…To maintain the Yeonsan Ogye population, the Yeonsan Ogye Foundation is cooperating with various livestock research institutes and universities [ 5 ]. However, there is no established system for selecting which males and females to breed other than selecting completely black individuals.…”

“…265). Selection is used to maintain the standard phenotype of the Yeonsan Ogye chicken, as individuals with various other plumage colors are occasionally observed [ 5 ]. Exceptional individuals are eliminated from the breeding pool to maintain the natural heritage phenotype.…”

Analysis of runs of homozygosity in Yeonsan Ogye chickens using 600K SNP arrays

“…Previous research conducted that the genetic diversity of the YO population was analyzed using 12 microsatellite markers as part of a continuous effort to minimize inbreeding. This analysis revealed the YO population can be divided into five clusters according to genetic distances among individuals within the population [2]. Although the conservation plan has been continuously improved, the estimation of inbreeding within a population remains challenging because of the absence of pedigree information, which is invaluable for determining inbreeding between individuals.…”

“…For conservation purposes, the YO breed maintained a population of over 1,000 individuals and selected the parent stocks every year without pedigree information. Selection is solely based on external black phenotypic traits, regardless of genetic diversity and inbreeding rates [2]. However, pedigree information is crucial to manage and control inbreeding among individuals, especially for conserved breeds such as the YO [3].…”