Whole Genome Resequencing Reveals Genetic Diversity and Selection Signatures of Ethiopian Indigenous Cattle Adapted to Local Environments

Cattle are among the most important domesticated bovid species in world, of which Ethiopia possesses large populations adapted to different agro-ecologies and production systems. Though several molecular population genetic studies have been done on Ethiopian indigenous cattle, genomic diversity selection signatures pertinent adaptation local environments yet be comprehensively characterized. Here, whole genome sequences 151 samples from 14 cattle were analyzed assess differentiation as well positive (using Hp, iHS, FST, XP-CLR) comparison Sudanese zebu, Asian Ankole, African European taurine cattle. High was observed between non-Ethiopian populations, while low inbreeding present within populations. Sixteen regions overlapping with 40 candidate genes commonly identified by at least three scan methods. frequencies missense SNPs ITPR2, CHADL, GNAS, STING1, KIT high haplotype differentiations compared The significantly associated biological functions pathways responsible for nutrient metabolism, skeletal development, immune response, reproduction, water balance, coat color pigmentation, circulatory homeostasis. Our results provide new insights into country’s diverse environments.