Clonal Analysis and Genetic Diversity of Cat Breeds From Both Local and Foreign Breeds

Studying the genetic diversity of cat populations provides insights into their evolutionary history, ‎migration patterns, and population dynamics. In order to clarify the genetic relationships between ‎cat breeds, a total of 17 cat species (8 local and 9 imported from foreign countries) were ‎subjected to blood samples, and whole genomic DNA samples were extracted from their RBCs. ‎‎“Random amplified polymorphic DNA polymerase chain reaction (RAPD-PCR)” was performed ‎to fingerprint their genomes. The resulting gel DNA bands were analysed using GelJ software. ‎The clustering of cat species was performed according to their type and country of origin. Two ‎‎(groups were identified (groups 1 and 2) with 13 genotypes, in which cluster 1 contained all local ‎species while the other cluster was grouped with all imported species (the similarity between the ‎two groups were 53%). Most of the local cat species were genetically similar at 100%. While ‎most of the cats that were imported were genetically diverse (most of them were grouped under ‎different genotypes), The study suggests the genetic mixing of local species resulted from mating ‎with each other, while reduced opportunities for mating between imported and local cats resulted ‎in limited genetic relatedness. Understanding the factors that influence mating capabilities and ‎genetic mixing among local and imported cat species is essential for managing and conserving ‎these populations effectively. It highlights the complexities of interspecies interactions and ‎underscores the importance of considering ecological, behavioral, and genetic factors in ‎conservation planning and management strategies.