High Genetic Diversity Revealed by RAPD Markers in the Black Francolin (Francolinus francolinus, Galliformes) of Pakistan

In this study random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers were used to infer the genetic profile of the black francolin (Francolinus francolinus, Galliformes) (N = 23) collected in five Pakistani areas (Alipur, Bait Suvai, Chakwal, Haroonabad and Rakni). A total of 269 different RAPD bands were obtained using fifteen primers. Estimates of the percentage of overall polymorphism (87.79%), Shannon’s diversity information index (H = 0.421) and Nei’s average gene diversity index (IN = 0.276) were comparatively high. UPGMA dendrogram based on Jaccard similarity index was constructed. Four clusters were found: one comprising two populations (Rakni and Haroonabad) and the other three including only one population. Our genetic findings represent a preliminary yet promising background for a better understanding of the adaptive strategy of black francolin, and will be soon implemented with deeper analysis based on mitochondrial and microsatellite DNA to help local conservation managers to plan an effective strategy to protect this species in the Pakistani range.