Assessing the genetic diversity of Australian goats

Assessing genetic diversity and population structure of Australian goats is the first step towards establishing a genomic reference population to enable a multibreed genetic evaluation. This study explored the genetic structure of Australian goat breeds, focusing mostly on Rangeland, Boer, and Kalahari Red goats. Results revealed clear genetic distinctions between Boer, Rangeland, dairy, and fibre breeds. Rangeland goats exhibited multiple ancestries but formed distinct groups, suggesting they are a separate breed. Australian Boer goats clustered with global Boer populations, while Australian Kalahari Red goats were genetically similar to Boers, indicating little differentiation. The results highlight the genetic makeup of Australia’s diverse goat population and lay the groundwork to facilitate multibreed genetic evaluations, ultimately improving breeding strategies and accelerating genetic progress across Australian goat breeds.