Vol. 9, Issue 12, Part A (2025)

The diversity status of Bidri goats of Karnataka was studied by using microsatellite marker analysis. The genomic DNA from unrelated Bidri goats were PCR-amplified with a panel of 10 microsatellite markers. Microsatellite PCR products were run on Metaphore agarose gel and the raw data obtained was analysed. A total of 131 alleles were detected, with allele numbers per locus ranging from 6 to 17, indicating high allelic richness compared to previous studies in Bidri and local goats. Observed heterozygosity ranged from 0 to 1, while expected heterozygosity exceeded 0.5 at all loci, confirming the markers’ suitability for diversity assessment. Polymorphism information content (PIC) values were high (mean 0.865), and Shannon’s index indicated substantial genetic variability. However, positive inbreeding coefficients (FIS) and significant deviations from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium at most loci suggested possible inbreeding or population substructure. These findings highlight the considerable genetic diversity retained in Bidri goats, emphasizing the need for conservation and selective breeding strategies to sustain this indigenous meat resource critical to rural livelihoods and meat production in Karnataka. This comprehensive microsatellite-based characterization provides a valuable genetic baseline for future breed improvement and conservation efforts.