Abstract：A total of 6 AFLP primer combinations were used to detect genetic variation of pooled DNA in a sample of 12 indigenous chicken breeds, and AFLP DNA fingerprinting of each chicken breed was constructed. Polymorphic bands, specific bands and genetic similarity coefficient of 12 chicken breeds were detected and calculated from AFLP data, and UPGMA cluster analysis was also performed. The 6 primer combinations generated 279 polymorphic bands, 46.5 polymorphic markers were detected by one primer combination on the average. Nine specific bands were produced in the pooled DNA of Shouguang chickens and Dongxiang dark chickens, however, 1 specific band was produced in the pooled DNA of Jiuyuan dark chickens and Xingyi bantam chickens. UPGMA cluster analysis revealed that 12 chicken breeds were divided into three groups. Genetic similarity coefficient and the UPGMA tree of 12 chicken breeds were consistent with its breeding history and geographical distribution. It is feasible to analyze the genetic diversity, genetic relationship and identify chicken breeds based on AFLP DNA fingerprinting.
