Assessment of Genetic Diversity and Conservation in South African Indigenous Goat Ecotypes: A Review

SIMPLE SUMMARY: This review seeks to understand the scientific research on the genetic diversity of the indigenous goat ecotypes of South Africa and to provide an understanding of the relationships among the ecotypes and their structure. It is essential for their utilization and for the establishment of conservation priorities. The conservation of genetically diverse ecotypes is significant for sustainable production and relevant breeding objectives. It is, therefore, important to review the knowledge that has been gathered on the genetic diversity and conservation of indigenous goat ecotypes to be able to identify the gaps that remain and the niches for future research. The review focuses on the status of indigenous goat ecotypes in South Africa, the genetic diversity that exists, and the production potential and adaptation by highlighting the importance of prioritization for conservation and sustainable utilization. ABSTRACT: Goats were amongst the first livestock to be domesticated more than 10,000 years ago for their meat, milk, skin, and fiber. They were introduced to Southern Africa by migrating nations from Central Africa to the south. Due to local adaptation to the different agro-ecological zones and selection, indigenous goats are identified as ecotypes within the indigenous veld goat breed. Their ability to thrive in a resource-limited production system and in challenging environmental conditions makes them valuable animal resources for small-scale and emerging farmers. They play important roles in household agriculture and cultural activities as well as in poverty alleviation. Studies have described the phenotypic and genetic variations in indigenous goats, targeting the major goat-producing regions and the breeds of South Africa. In turn, information is restricted to certain breeds and regions, and the experimental design is often not adequate to inform the conservation status and priorities in changing environments. Advances in genomics technologies have availed more opportunities for the assessment of the biodiversity, demographic histories, and detection regions associated with local adaptation. These technologies are essential for breeding and conservation strategies for sustainable production for food security. This review focuses on the status of indigenous goats in South Africa and the application of genomics technologies for characterization, with emphasis on prioritization for conservation and sustainable utilization.