Evaluation of the genetic potential of the Nenets reindeer breed for creation of the technologies of directed selection processes in northern reindeer herding

Northern reindeer herding is the leading branch of animal husbandry in the Russian Far North, which is one of the oldest forms of economic activity and a source of income for indigenous peoples. The profitability of reindeer herding, like any branch of animal husbandry, largely depends on the efficiency of selection and breeding work. In spite of the enormous achievements in genetics and selection, in information technologies, the breeding work in northern reindeer herding is carried out by outdated common methods. The further development of reindeer herding requires improving the level of breeding work through the use of modern selection and breeding methods. The new approaches include introduction and use of marker-associated and genomic selection in reindeer herding. The gene pools of reindeer populations are formed as a result of microevolutionary processes, mainly gene drift against random mating of individuals, pressure of natural selection, and anthropogenic technological factors. As a result of migration of individuals from other herds and farms, crossbreeding with wild individuals, uncontrolled elimination of animals, genetic processes in populations are difficult to predict. However, to assess the genetic diversity and minimize inbreeding, it is necessary to conduct the genetic analysis of reindeer populations (breeds, herds). Sample estimation should be carried out live-animal, mainly for individuals that are reproduction-valuable and will make a significant contribution to the formation of the future gene pool. This article gives an assessment of intrapopulation genetic differentiation of herd of the Nenets reindeer breed.