Genetic characterization of rare wild sheep in Uzbekistan based on mitochondrial DNA 16S rRNA genes

In this study, three rare wild sheep subspecies inhabiting Uzbekistan – Ovis ammon severtzovi, Ovis vignei bochariensis, and Ovis vignei arkal were genetically characterized using partial mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene sequences obtained from non-invasive samples. Molecular analysis confirmed the genetic identification of all three taxa within the genus Ovis. Comparative analysis of mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed low genetic divergence among the investigated taxa, ranging from 0.46% to 1.40%. Phylogenetic reconstruction supported the formation of well-supported monophyletic clades, with bootstrap values ranging from 92% to 97%, corresponding to the major urial and argali lineages. The Ustyurt and Bukhara sheep formed distinct subclades within the urial lineage, whereas the Kyzylkum sheep clustered with argali representatives. The results demonstrate that non-invasive genetic sampling provides a practical and minimally disruptive approach for the molecular identification of rare and endangered wild sheep. This method eliminates the need for direct animal capture or handling, thereby reducing stress and potential impacts on the study animals, while requiring relatively small amounts of biological material and limited labor and financial resources. Therefore, non-invasive genetic sampling may be a valuable tool for monitoring population structure, genetic diversity, and distribution in rare and threatened wildlife species.