Evaluation of different crossbreeding programmes, season and sex on birth weight and linear traits of Nigerian goats

Abstract

Data from 600 Weaner (300 male and 300 females) kids from crossbreeding programmes derived from the mating of two Nigerian breeds of goat, namely West African Dwarf (WAD) and Red Sokoto Goat (RSG) were used for the study. The mating types were WAD x WAD (F1) – Genotype – 1 (Savannah ecozones), RSG x WAD – Genotype 11, RSG x F1 (F2 back cross) – genotype 111. WAD x RSG – genotype IV. Twelve Bucks and 12 Does were selected from each of (Sahel, coastal and Savannah) the ecozones according to the breeding programme. The study was conducted at the Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Abakaliki Campus between 1995 and 2000. the aim was to evaluate the effect of different crossbreeding programmes, season and sex on birth weight and linear traits of Nigerian goat kids. The birth weight means and linear traits for the six breeding groups were significantly (P < 0.05) different. Season of rearing and sex significantly (P < 0.05) affected the birth weight. Of the kids with late rainy season (July - September) having significantly higher birth weight. Male animals excelled the females on birth weight, chest and head circumference. The result suggests that the crossbreeding programme involving RSG x F1 (F2 back cross) – genotype III displayed superior birth weight and chest circumference and should be tested, inbred and if found productive and adaptive, it could then be recommended to the breeder farmers' fixation or commercial crossing for meat production. The information on the effect of sex, and season on the growth is useful in improvement programme through crossbreeding. Keywords: Crossbreeding programmes, Birth weight, Linear traits, Nigerian goat breeds Agro-Science Vol. 4 (2) 2005: pp. 34-37