In this study, whole genomic data of 29 dromedary samples representing three populations from the southeast of the Arabian Peninsula (Muscat, Al-Batinah, and Al-Sharqiya) were investigated to assess their genetic diversity and define candidate signatures of positive selection.
Background: Dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius) are members of the Camelini tribe within the Camelidae family. They are distributed throughout north Africa, the Arabian Peninsula and southeast Asia. This domestic species is characterized by its superior adaptability to the harsh desert environment it inhabits. In this study, whole genomic data of 29 dromedary samples representing three populations from the southeast of the Arabian Peninsula (Muscat, Al-Batinah, and Al-Sharqiya) were investigated to assess their genetic diversity and define candidate signatures of positive selection. An observable level of geographical genetic distinction exists among the dromedary camel populations in the southeastern Arabian Peninsula, with a degree of genetic admixture. These populations are also differentiated from the Majaheem camels located in the central region of the Peninsula.  Results: Using the de-correlated composite of multiple signals (DCMS) approach, a total of 47 candidate regions within the autosomes of these dromedary populations exhibit signatures of positive selection. The candidate regions harbor a total of 154 genes that are mainly associated with functional categories related to immune response, lipid metabolism and energy expenditure, optical and auditory functions, and long-term memory.  Conclusion: In this study, different genomic variants were called on the candidate regions and genes that might be linked to the dromedary camels' environmental adaptations. The output of this study paves the way for further investigations aimed at defining markers for use in genomic breeding programs, with the goal of conserving the species and enhancing its productivity.