Molecular inference in the colonization of cattle in Ecuador.

The aim of the present paper was to evaluate genetic diversity within and among Ecuadorian bovine breeds using microsatellite markers. The genetic identity and the exotic influences from taurine or zebuine cosmopolitan breeds on Macabea, Loja, Santa Elena, Manabí and Isla de Puná breeds were evaluated. Twenty-eight microsatellite markers were tested across 254 individuals belonging to the five Ecuadorian populations to investigate intra and inter population genetic diversity levels.