The Donkey Genome: From Evolutionary Insights to Sustainable Breeding Strategies

Abstract

Donkeys are an important livestock species that play a significant role in agriculture and rural livelihoods. However, their genetic potential has remained largely unexplored. Recent advances in genomics have provided new insights into the evolutionary history of donkeys. These studies have also identified genetic factors underlying key traits related to survival and productivity, including heat tolerance, metabolism, and reproduction. Such findings are essential for improving breeding programs. They can enhance donkeys’ adaptability to diverse environments and optimize their contributions to milk, meat, and hide production. Despite these advances, the application of genomics in donkey breeding is still constrained. Small sample sizes and inconsistent data quality remain major challenges. This research proposes a roadmap to overcome these limitations. It emphasizes improved data collection, optimized breeding strategies, and sustainable conservation efforts. By addressing these issues, the study aims to support the long-term preservation of donkey populations and maximize their economic value for future generations. Keywords: donkey genome, population genomics, production traits, breeding, conservation