Pedigree based analysis of population structure in Hungarian sheep (Racka sheep)

Lévai, András and Gáspárdy, András (2025) Pedigree based analysis of population structure in Hungarian sheep (Racka sheep). DANUBIAN ANIMAL GENETIC RESOURCES, 10 (2). pp. 49-58. ISSN 2498-5910

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Abstract

The Hungarian sheep (also known as Racka sheep) is the best known and most characteristic native sheep breed of Hungary, which has been bred in the Carpathian Basin for centuries. Regular pedigree data collection has been ongoing since 1994. The black and white colour variants are bred separately and registered in closed studbooks, and although they are similar in appearance, they are genetically distinct. Thanks to subsidies, the breed is currently flourishing, but the processing of studbook data and population genetic analysis are essential for its long-term, secure maintenance. The white Racka herd numbers 4,314 living animals currently, while the black Racka herd numbers 3,905 animals. The white Racka variant is kept by 48 breeders and the black one by 43 breeders, with an average number of 90 and 91 individuals per farm, respectively, with a very large variation. There are few large flocks (with more than 200 ewes), six for each colour. Therefore, it can be said that the stock is fragmented, which is favourable for preserving the genetic diversity of the breed, as more rams are used than in the case of modern breeds at large operations. The sex ratio is advantageous, 1:24 for white and 1:21 for black variant. The current breeding situation therefore appears favourable. However, we have found that despite the seemingly favourable data, genetic narrowing is occurring in both colours. In the white colour, this process is particularly noticeable in the male sex. Here, the number of lines has decreased from 103 to 42 in 30 years. In the black colour, this process is visible in both sexes. The number of lines has decreased from 88 to 41, and the number of families from 3,163 to 1,128. These data show that the long-term sustainability of the breed is at risk. The effective population size exceeds 2,200 individuals for both colour variants, but this seemingly favourable data alone is not sufficient for a correct assessment of the situation. Taking into account external factors (the high selection pressure applied to rams, the strong dependence of breeders on subsidies, the fragmentation of breeding farms, and the low willingness of breeders to cooperate), it can be said that new methods need to be developed to ensure the sustainability of the breed. Our main goal is to preserve the original characteristics of the Hungarian sheep, a breed that has defined Hungarian shepherding for centuries, and to maintain its original genetic diversity. To this end, we have processed the pedigree data of 110,000 individuals recorded over the past 30 years. As part of this, the ram lines and maternal families have been identified and coded. Going forward, we aim to use this knowledge to propose a breed maintenance program based on the within-family selection.

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