Genetic structure and selection signatures of Beijing-You chicken populations provide insight into breed conservation
TL;DR
All four populations formed distinct clusters, reflecting measurable differentiation after decades of separate conservation, and patterns of reduced diversity and skewed relatedness were highlighted, which could arise from management-related factors such as breeding preferences or mating strategies.
Abstract
Preserving genetic diversity and maintaining population viability are critical yet challenging goals that demand rigorous evaluation of conservation strategies. Beijing-You chicken, as the sole indigenous chicken breed originating from Beijing, China, is currently maintained as four independent populations under distinct conservation programs. How different conservation regimes have shaped its genomic architecture remains largely unknown, limiting evidence-based evaluation. Here, we generated whole-genome resequencing data from 240 individuals representing four Beijing-You chicken populations to assess population structure, genetic diversity, and signatures of selection over decades of conservation. All four populations formed distinct clusters, reflecting measurable differentiation after decades of separate conservation. The differences in genetic diversity were broadly consistent with the variation in effective population size estimates. Runs of homozygosity and linkage disequilibrium decay patterns further characterized each population, with extended values indicating reduced effective population size and increased inbreeding under long-term conservation. We applied the fixation index (FST) and pairwise diversity ratio (θπ) methods to identify selection signatures. A total of 171 genes were identified as candidates. These genes were enriched in pathways related to reproduction, growth regulation, and environmental adaptation. These findings highlight patterns of reduced diversity and skewed relatedness, which could arise from management-related factors such as breeding preferences or mating strategies. Still, they are also compatible with neutral processes, including drift and founder effects. Regardless of the underlying cause, integrating scientifically informed conservation strategies with routine genomic monitoring across generations is essential for sustaining genetic diversity in Beijing-You chicken and other indigenous breeds.