Genetic diversity of the cat (Felis catus) through morphological markers in San Bernardo del Viento, Colombia

Abstract

The phenotypic markers (coat genes) are a tool to determine the diversity of cat populations. The objective of this study was to evaluate the diversity and genetic structure of the cat (Felis catus) populations, in San Bernardo del Viento, Córdoba, Colombia. Samples were randomized and, through direct observations, 213 cats were phenotypically characterized taking into account the following aspects: September-November period,  on routes through the urban areas of San Bernardo del Viento, and in accordance with the nomenclature recommended by the Committee Standardized Genetic Nomenclature For Cats. Autosomal markers of morphological coding like the sex-linked locus Orange (O) and the autosomal loci Non-agouti (a), Tabby blotched (Tb), Dilution (d), Long hair (l), Spotted white (S), and Dominant white (W), were used. The following genetic parameters were calculated: allele frequency, genetic diversity, gene flow, Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, and genetic distance. The phylogenetic relationships among cat populations were inferred. The Non-agouti marker was the most frequent while Tabby blotched and Long hair genes had the lowest values. There was a low genetic diversity among populations (D_ST) and a great diversity within populations (H_S), as well as a high gene flow. An excess of heterozygotes at the population level and the absence of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium were observed. The communities of cats studied are genetically connected.