Preliminary study on genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships of Teropong Temanggung sheep based on mitochondrial cytochrome b sequences

Abstract

The Teropong Temanggung sheep, an indigenous Indonesian breed from Central Java, represents an important genetic resource for smallholder farmers. However, molecular genetic information on this population remains limited. To clarify its maternal genetic background, this preliminary study analyzed the mitochondrial cytochrome b (Cyt b) gene sequence. Blood samples from six (n = 6) Teropong Temanggung sheep were collected, DNA was extracted, and a complete Cyt b gene fragment was amplified and sequenced. Three single-nucleotide polymorphism sites produced two haplotypes. Analysis using MEGA software showed low haplotype diversity (Hd = 0.3333) and nucleotide diversity (Pi = 0.00088). Phylogenetic reconstruction revealed that five samples clustered within haplogroup B and one within haplogroup A, suggesting a mixed maternal lineage origin. These findings provide preliminary baseline information on maternal genetic variation in Teropong Temanggung sheep; however, given the limited sample size and the use of a single mitochondrial marker, they should not be interpreted as evidence of genome-wide genetic distinctiveness. The results serve as a foundation for future studies incorporating larger sample sizes and nuclear genetic markers to better characterize this local sheep population.