Veterinarska stanica, Vol. 55 No. 4, 2024.
Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.46419/vs.55.4.4
Genetic analysis of the domestic pigeon (Columba livia) through feather colour-associated markers in Montería, Córdoba, Colombia
Enrique Pardo-Pérez
orcid.org/0000-0002-6467-5790
; Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences Universidad de Córdoba, Montería, Córdoba, Colombia
*
Daniel Florez-Martínez
; Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences Universidad de Córdoba, Montería, Córdoba, Colombia
Mauricio Begambre-Hernández
; Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences Universidad de Córdoba, Montería, Córdoba, Colombia
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
The species known as the domestic pigeon, scientifically Columba livia, has managed to establish itself successfully in urban environments of numerous cities around the world. This expansion has become so significant that it has triggered concerns related to its tendency to nest in human-built structures. This nesting behaviour has contributed to the deterioration of these buildings. The distinctive presence of these birds in neighbourhoods and plazas has generated a growing interest in better understanding the genetic patterns that encode their varied coloration and plumage designs. The aim of this study was to investigate the genetic variability of the population of domestic pigeons (Columba livia) in Montería, Colombia, using phenotypic markers of plumage. Random sampling was conducted between March and April 2023 on 21 flocks of pigeons within the municipality of Montería. Through urban excursions, direct observation, and photographic records, 1570 individuals were phenotypically classified. Autosomal markers encoding coloration and plumage design were studied: Checker (C), Grizzle (G), Spread (S), and Ash-Red (B). The genetic profiles of subpopulations of domestic pigeons were established using the following genetic population indices: expected heterozygosity (He), total genetic diversity (HT), diversity within populations (HS), diversity between populations (DST), coefficient of genetic diversity (GST), gene flow (Nm), and genetic distance between populations. It was found that the most common allele in the studied populations is Checker, allelic frequencies ranged from 0.315 for the Checker gene to 0.005 for the Spread marker. Total genetic diversity was moderate, and genetic differentiation between populations was low, accompanied by a high gene flow. An excess of heterozygotes was also observed, and low genetic distance values were found between populations. The results indicate limited genetic differentiation among populations, leading to the conclusion that pigeon populations in Montería are highly related.
Keywords
Columba livia; genetic diversity; gene flow; heterozygosity; Monteria
Hrčak ID:
307522
URI
Publication date:
2.11.2023.
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