Identifying sequence variation in cation channel sperm associated genes in Cape mountain zebra (Equus zebra zebra)

The Cape mountain zebra (Equus zebra) has recovered from near extinction over more than eight decades. While their numbers have increased, populations remain isolated with low genetic diversity. With 75 new being founded and 4800 extant animals, conservation management strategies are implemented to mitigate risk of losses in diversity reproductive fitness. One objective is identify characteristics that may improve population growth. Cation channel sperm (CatSper) genes play an important role hyperactivation during fertilization. Mutations these lead reduced fertility even infertility. Ten male zebras were sampled a group translocated 2016 order found population. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) identified three the CatSper (1 - 3). Lack variation was observed all exons, only four SNPs intronic regions close proximity exons 1, 2, 7, 8, 9 1. These results contribute pre-identification males for founder ensure growth viability, be useful tool selection against low-producing individuals.