DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sajb.2026.v14i10.009

Pages: 724-737

This study investigated the genetic variability of indigenous chickens from Congo using 14 microsatellite markers, of which 12 were found to be functional. The high amplification rates confirmed the quality of genetic typing and the reliability of the protocol used. Allelic and polymorphism analyses revealed strong heterogeneity among loci, with some highly informative markers showing substantial genetic richness, particularly in Northern populations. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and phylogenetic tree analysis revealed a distinct genetic structure: the ALEME population represents a homogeneous genetic isolate, whereas EWO, OBILI, and OKA form an interconnected group characterized by significant gene flow. These results confirm the coexistence of genetic isolates and mixed genetic pools within village poultry systems and highlight the need to adopt differentiated conservation strategies to ensure the sustainable management of these local genetic resources.