Biggest ever DNA survey on Eriskay pony breed
Eriskay Pony Society is working with genetics experts at Nottingham Trent University and the Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST) to carry out the biggest ever survey of Eriskay pony DNA as they work to protect and promote this critically endangered native breed.
It follows a successful bid from the society for funding from the Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB), and a contribution from society funds.
Results of this ground-breaking analysis will be used, in conjunction with the RBST’s equine conservation project, to help inform all future breeding plans and decision making for this critically-endangered breed.
Catriona Rowan, Eriskay Pony Society chairperson, said it is a welcome step forward in the efforts to protect and promote the breed. ‘With such a small gene pool, we cannot just rely on the look of ponies and studbook information to make our breeding matches,’ she explained. ‘With the help of RBST we have adopted the Single Population Analysis and Records system of selection which goes some way to prevent inbreeding and help us avoid future problems.
‘However, we recognise science and technology can give us much more accurate understanding of the genetics, flagging up any current or potential future issues and helping us make sure every animal bred is as healthy and fit for purpose as possible.
‘This study, which is open to any Eriskay pony registered with a recognised Eriskay breed society, either the Eriskay Pony Society or Comann Each Nan Eilean, will give us a great foundation to work with. It will be a baseline of information for use in our work with the RBST’s Equine Conservation Project which requires us to provide complex information about our genetic profiles. We know the Eriskay pony has a relatively narrow studbook compared to breeds such as the Cleveland Bay. Narrow pedigrees mean pedigree analysis alone cannot be relied upon with confidence to estimate inbreeding within the population. Genotyping and sequencing can provide the molecular picture of the genetic health of the breed. Our work with Nottingham Trent University will give us assessment of genetic variation and molecular basis of inbreeding within the Eriskay pony breed which will then be collated in an Eriskay pony genetic archive.
‘We acquired the HBLB grant to make this analysis possible following a rigorous bidding process, in which we had to submit a detailed and costed proposal and commit a percentage of our own funding.
‘We’re delighted we can share access to this project to all pony owners for the overall good of the breed.’
It is easy for Eriskay owners to get involved. Simply apply by emailing info@eriskaypony. org for a testing kit and it will be sent free of charge. It is a simple process using a hair sample, which must be returned by the end of July.
Ms Rowan added: ‘The more samples we have, the better the overall picture we can build of the breed and the more useful the information will be. And any Eriskay pony can make a contribution, no matter the age or breeding status. It’s a great way for owners to support the future of the breed.’