A Fundamental Statistical Tools Application for Livestock Diversity Studies from Microsatellite Data—A Mini Review

Abstract

The conservation of genetic variation is essential for meeting future unpredictable breeding re-quirements. Therefore, the foremost priority must be given to assessment of the population varia-tion status. Among several markers, a DNA based microsatellite is a choice for the population studies, currently. We reviewed some important statistical tools for assessing the farm animal biodiversity. Firstly, the reliability of the results which is mainly based on the number of microsa-tellite loci genotyped and unrelated sample size per population was discussed. Secondly, we ar-gued genetic parameters which are estimated while reporting the state of population variations. Thirdly, supplementing information to variations was also presented. Fourthly, we briefly dis-cussed the types and constructing phylogenetic tree and the role of principal component analysis. Finally, we presented the important web-based statistical packages for genetic data analysis. This shall assist in devising appropriate conservation strategy for our farm animal genetic resources.