Study on Sztumski Mares Enrolled in the Genetic Resources Conservation Programme in 2008 / Badania Nad Klaczami Sztumskimi Przyjętymi Do Programu Ochrony Zasobów Genetycznych W Roku 2008

The aim of this study was to conduct genetic analysis of 219 cold-blooded Sztumski mares, which were enrolled in the genetic resources conservation programme in 2008. The inbreeding level in the mares, their average genetic relationship with the population, and the average coefficient of kinship were analysed, as well as the number and origin of common ancestors (founders of the population) were determined. The age structure and coat colour in the mares, as well as the size and geographical distribution of the herds were also determined. Over 97% of the mares enrolled in the conservation programme were inbred. The average inbreeding coefficient was 1.93% and ranged from 0% to 32.6%; the average relationship coefficient (2.38%) for the population was the highest in the group of mares aged 9 to 11 years (2.63%); the average kinship within the population was 2.89% and ranged from 5 to 5.99% in the case of five mares. The mares descended from 785 founders, including 561 mares (mainly cold-blooded Sztumski and Sokólski breeds) and 224 stallions (mainly Ardennes and Belgian breeds). Distribution of the herds does not fully reflect the historic region from which the breed originated, while the population itself is scattered and kept in many herds, most of which have 2 (occasionally up to 6) mares.