Comparative genetic analysis between red-legged partridges (Alectoris rufa) and chukar partridges (A. chukar): Identification of single-nucleotide polymorphisms

Abstract

Populations of red-legged partridges have been decreasing due to many factors such as the deterioration of their natural habitat or increasing hunting pressure and according to laws only pure red-legged partridges can be used to repopulate wherever necessary. Little information is available about the DNA sequence of the red-legged partridge. For this reason, it was necessary to carry out a comparative analysis with other avian species that have been studied in more detail, such as the chicken. Searching of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) was used to analyse various genes in these species with respect to the red-legged partridge and chukar partridge in order to characterise and differentiate between these two species. The genes analysed were the growth hormone, 37LRP/p40 and MC1R genes. Many SNP were found between the chicken and partridges but translations of exonic regions were only different for the MC1R gene. Two interspecific SNP in partridges were found which can be used to differentiate between these two species in order to identify Alectoris chukar individuals and to avoid repopulating with them. © INRA, EDP Sciences, 2006.