a_carnica_snp_data.bed

We investigated genomic diversity, population structure, and relatedness of Carniolan honeybee (<i>Apis mellifera carnica</i>) populations (AMC) in Central Eastern Europe and Italian honeybee (<i>Apis mellifera ligustica</i>) populations from Italy (AML) using Illumina Infinium SNPChip data. Our analysis involved principal component analysis (PCA), heterozygosity, admixture analysis, fixation indices (F_ST) and Nei's genetic distances.PCA revealed distinct genetic separation between AML and AMC populations, as well as within the AMC populations themselves. Admixture analysis supported PCA results, indicating varying levels of gene flow within the AMC populations, particularly between geographical regions like Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro. Heterozygosity analysis unveiled diverse genetic diversity levels, with the Montenegro Carniolan population displaying the highest differentiation. Negative F values across populations (except for Croatia) suggested limited inbreeding and potential gene flow. Pairwise F_ST values indicated low differentiation among Carniolan populations, while Nei's genetic distances shed light on their genetic relationships.This study offers valuable insights into the genetic structure, differentiation, and relationships among AMC populations in Central Eastern European countries. These findings hold significance for conservation, breeding programs, and sustainable beekeeping practices, emphasizing the need to consider genetic factors and population structure in honeybee breeding and management.