Boer Goats Research Articles

Exploration of nutritional and bioactive peptide properties in goat meat from various primal cuts during in vitro gastrointestinal digestion and absorption.

This research aims to explore the nutritional and bioactive peptide properties of goat meat taken from various primal cuts, including the breast, shoulder, rib, loin, and leg, to produce these bioactive peptides during in vitro gastrointestinal (GI) digestion and absorption. The goat meat from various primal cuts was obtained from Boer goats with an average carcass weight of 30±2 kg. The meat was collected within 3 h after slaughter and was stored at -80°C until analysis. A comprehensive assessment encompassed various aspects, including the chemical composition, cooking properties, in vitro GI digestion, bioactive characteristics, and the bioavailability of the resulting peptides. The findings indicate that the loin muscles contain the highest protein and essential amino acid composition. When the meats were cooked at 70°C for 30 min, they exhibited distinct protein compositions and quantities in the sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis profile, suggesting they served as different protein substrates during GI digestion. Subsequent in vitro simulated GI digestion revealed that the cooked shoulder and loin underwent the most significant hydrolysis during the intestinal phase, resulting in the strongest angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and dipeptidyl peptidase-IV (DPP-IV) inhibition. Following in vitro GI peptide absorption using a Caco-2 cell monolayer, the GI peptide derived from the cooked loin demonstrated greater bioavailability and a higher degree of ACE and DPP-IV inhibition than the shoulder peptide. This study highlights the potential of goat meat, particularly cooked loin, as a functional meat source for protein, essential amino acids, and bioactive peptides during GI digestion and absorption. These peptides promise to play a role in preventing and treating metabolic diseases due to their dual inhibitory effects on ACE and DPP-IV.

Study Efisiensi Reproduksi Kambing Kacang dan Hasil Persilangannya Dengan Kambing Boer (Boerka) di Lombok

This research was carried out with the aim of determining the reproductive efficiency of Kacang goats and goats resulting from crosses with Boer goats (Boerka goats). This research was carried out in the area of ​​development of the Kacang goat and a cross between the Kacang goat and the Boer goat (Boerka) in Lombok with the aim of determining the level of reproductive efficiency of the Boerka goat and the Kacang goat in the people's breeding business. The variables observed include: An Estrus Post Partum, Open Days, service per conception, service period and kid interval, litter size and first mating after giving birth. Location determination was carried out using purposive sampling based on the breed of goats being kept. Livestock samples were taken randomly from 60 mother goats (30 Kacang mother goats and 30 Boerka mother goats). The observation data was tabulated using the Excel program and then analyzed using the t-test. Data analysis activities use Genstat software. Goat race/breed has no significant effect (P > 0.05) on the first estrus after giving birth, service conception and number of offspring per birth, but has a significant effect (P < 0.05) on service period, days open and calving interval (kid interval). The calving interval for the mother Kacang goat is longer, namely 253.00 ± 14.87 days (8.4 months) compared to the mother Boerka goat, namely 234.86 ± 07.09 days (7.8 months).

Development and in vivo biomechanics of goat mobile artificial lumbar spine complex

Mobile artificial lumbar complex (MALC) which suitable for reconstruction after subtotal lumbar resection in goats was developed,and to test stability of the complex and postoperative lumbar segmental motor function. Eighteen male boer goats aged from 1 to 2 years old (weighted from 35 to 45 kg) were selected and divided into control group,fusion group and non-fusion group,with 6 goats in each group. According to preoperative CT scans and MRI examinations of lumbar,the goat MALC was designed and performed by 3D printed for non-fusion group. Operation was performed on three groups respectively,and only vertebral body and disc were exposed in control group. In fusion group,L4 part of vertebral body and the upper and lower complete disc tissues were removed,and the lumbar spine bone plate fixation was performed with titanium mesh bone grafting. In non-fusion group,vertebral body and disc were removed in the same way,and MALC was implanted. AP and lateral X-rays of lumbar vertebrae in goat were taken at 6 months after surgery,in order to understand whether the plant was dislocated,displaced and fractured. Biomechanical tests were performed on the specimens by mechanical instrument to measure range of motion (ROM) of L2,3,L3,4,L4,5 intervertebral space and the overall ROM of L2-5 lumbar vertebrae. MALC of lumbar vertebra was designed by 3D printing,and its component artificial vertebrae and upper and lower artificial end plates were manufactured. The semi-spherical structure was fabricated by precision lathe using high-crosslinked polyethylene material,and the prosthesis was assembled. Postoperative AP and lateral X-rays of lumbar vertebra at 6 months showed the implant position of implant and MALC were good without displacement and dislocation. In vitro biomechanical test of lumbar vertebrae specimens:(1) There were no statistical significance in ROM of lumbar intervertebral space flexion and extension,lateral flexion and rotation on L3,4 and L4,5,between non-fusion group and control group (P>0.05),while ROM of fusion group was significantly reduced compared with the other two groups (P<0.05). There were no significant difference in ROM of L2,3 intervertebral flexion and extension,lateral flexion and rotation between non-fusion group and control group (P>0.05),while fusion group was significantly increased compared with the other two groups (P<0.001). (2) There was no significant difference in overall lumbar ROM of L2-5 (P> 0.05). The individual MALC could restore intervertebral height of lumbar vertebra while maintaining the stability of lumbar vertebra and re-establishing motor function of lumbar space.

Organ weights and metabolic indicators in male goats differing in genetic propensity to consume juniper

Our objective was to determine if there was a cost of fitness associated with selecting Spanish x Boer goats for their propensity to consume above (H) or below (L) the herd average for proportion of juniper (Juniperus spp.) in the diet. Organ weights and metabolic parameters were compared among adult male goats (young [2-year-old] and old [3–5-year-old]) that spent their life grazing pastures containing juniper at the Texas A&M AgriLife Sonora Research Station. In June 2019, body weights were recorded, and serum samples collected by jugular venipuncture from 20 animals (n = 5 of each age and juniper consumption combination) 2 days prior to harvest. At harvest, organ weights (i.e., liver, kidney, heart, spleen, adrenal, testicle, epididymis) were obtained and later analyzed as relative organ weights (organ to body weight ratio). Analysis of variance was used to determine if differences in organ weights (g/kg BW) and serum parameters were detected between young (Y) and old (O), and H and L goats. Body weights (kg) did not differ by treatment group but were greater (P < 0.03) for O (76.0 ± 3.72) than Y (66.3 ± 1.9). Total testicular, epididymal, adrenal, and heart organ weights (g/kg BW) were not affected (P > 0.10) by age nor juniper consumption group. Total kidney weight (g/kg BW) was greater (P < 0.05) in H (2.53 ± 0.09) than L (2.19 ± 0.08) and liver weight (g/kg BW) trended (P = 0.15) in the same pattern, with H (15.80 ± 0.75) greater than L (14.58 ± 0.39). All serum parameters were clinically normal. Serum urea nitrogen (mg/dL) did not differ by treatment (P > 0.1) but was greater (P < 0.004) in O (12.9 ± 1.3) than Y (8.2 ± 0.5). NEFA (mEq/L) was greater (P < 0.02) in H (0.33 ± 0.04) than L (0.26 ± 0.02), but not differ between O and Y. Total globulin (g/dL) was greater (P < 0.007) in L (4.34 ± 0.35) than H (3.40 ± 0.16), and in O (4.29 ± 0.38) than Y (3.45 ± 0.12). Gamma glutamyl transferase was elevated (P < 0.0001) in H (59.2 ± 2.1) versus L (44.3 ± 2.2), and in Y (55.3 ± 2.9) than O (48.2 ± 3.2). In summary, under adequate nutritional conditions, length of exposure (via advancing age) and preference for juniper did not incur an acute cost of fitness in goats. However, the observed metabolic and organ differences indicate that under more challenging chronic conditions (e.g., drought or disease), consumption of monoterpene-defended plants may become problematic. Research to define these eco-physiologic bounds is needed.

Caprine whole blood appears sufficiently stable after 21 days in storage to be suitable for transfusion.

The objective of this study was to determine hematologic changes of stored caprine whole blood in citrate phosphate dextrose adenine solution over a 28-day period. Ten 250-mL bags of whole blood were collected from 10 female Boer goats from Louisiana State University's Division of Laboratory Animal Medicine herd. 10 healthy blood donor goats were selected, and 250 mL of whole blood was drawn from each and stored at 2.78 °C. At the time of collection and every 7 days for a total of 28 days, samples were obtained from the blood bags to determine biochemical and hematologic values of collected blood. Only 5 of the 10 donors had baseline blood bag samples obtained for biochemical evaluation on day 0. At the end of 28 days, the remaining blood was submitted for aerobic and anaerobic culture. Blood values remained within suitable limits for transfusion and below 1% hemolysis for up to 21 days in most samples. Packed cell volume did not change significantly from day 0 to day 28. Lactate significantly increased over the 28 days, though not as dramatically as expected on the basis of other blood storage studies. pH decreased due to anticoagulant acidity but did not drop below 7. Cultures were negative on all blood bags. Changes over time are similar to that in other species, and caprine blood appears biochemically and hematologically stable for up to 21 days in storage. In vivo trials are needed for safety and efficacy.

Flunixin meglumine tissue residues after intravenous administration in goats.

Flunixin is commonly used in goats in an extra-label manner, indicating a significant need to determine withdrawal intervals for edible tissues. The objectives of the present study were to investigate the depletion of flunixin meglumine in various goat tissues, including the liver, kidney, fat, and muscle. Twenty Boer goats were enrolled and administered an intravenous dose (2.2 mg/kg) of flunixin meglumine. Five animals were randomly euthanized at 24, 48, 72, or 96 h following dosing. All samples were analyzed via ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. The concentration of flunixin in all tissues declined rapidly, with the highest mean concentrations quantified in the kidney (0.137 ± 0.062 μg/g) and liver (0.077 ± 0.029 μg/g) tissues at 24 h. Since any detection of flunixin residues at slaughter found in goat tissues is considered a violative residue, a conservative withdrawal interval of 17 days was calculated to ensure levels of flunixin fell below the regulatory limits of detection in liver, kidney, and muscle tissues.

Comparison Productivity of PE and Boer Goats Based on Body Size and Semen Macroscopic

This study aims to provide an overview of the productivity of PE goats and Boer goats as material for determining policies and programs for goat development in Indonesia. This research was conducted on November 29, 2021-December 29, 2021 at ASP Farm, Karangploso District, Malang. The material used was body size and semen macroscopic data from 10 PE goats and 10 Boer goats. The tools used are Artificial Vagina (AV), scale tube, pH meter, meter, measuring range and measuring stick. The research method uses a qualitative descriptive method. The results of the study observing the body size of PE goats were very significantly different from Boer goats (P&lt;0.01). The average body length, chest circumference and shoulder height of PE goats were 88.4 cm, respectively; 92.1 cm; 90.2 cm and the male Boer goat is 76.7 cm; 87.2 cm; 79.3 cm. For the results of the macroscopic analysis of semen there was no significant difference except for the volume. For PE goats the average value of semen volume = 1.16 ml; color= 2,20; odor= 3.0; consistency = 2.40; and pH = 6.80. while the average volume of Boer goat semen = 0.96 ml; color= 2.60; odor= 3.0; consistency = 2.80; and pH= 7.0. The conclusion of this study is that PE goats are better than Boer in terms of body size and semen macroscopically.

Supplementation of crossbred boer goats with cottonseed meal and/or urea enhances estimated metabolizable protein intake, crude protein digestibility and nitrogen retention

This study aimed to determine feed intake, apparent digestibility, and nitrogen retention of crossbred Boer bucks supplemented with urea or cottonseed meal (CSM)when fed tropical Rhodes (Chloris gayana) grass hay (RGH) as a basal diet. Twelve eight-month-old bucks (23.9±1.1 kg live weight) were allocated to one of the four dietary treatments in a randomised block design. The treatments were 1) maize supplement (Control); or maize plus 2) urea supplement (M+U), 3) urea and CSM (M+UCSM); and (4) CSM (M+CSM). All bucks were held in individual metabolism crates for 21 days (11 days of adaptation and 10 days collection period) with ad libitum access to RGH and fresh drinking water in addition to the supplements. A one-way ANOVA and Duncan’s multiple range tests were used to test for differences between means at a significance level of P &lt; 0.05. Results indicated higher feed intake, apparent digestibility of crude protein and digestible nutrient intake in goats supplemented with M+CSM and M+UCSM, but not M+U alone. Supplementation with M+CSM increased nitrogen retention by 300%. Supplementation with M+UCSM and M+CSM increased the total feed intake of Boer goats on tropical grass hay by 13 and 20%, respectively. Supplementation with M+U, M+UCSM, and M+CSM improved the apparent digestibility of crude protein by 9.7, 15.7 and 15.1%, respectively. It can be concluded that total feed intake and nutrient digestibility was increased on growing Boer goats fed RGH as a basal diet supplemented with true protein from CSM or a mixture of true protein and rumen degradable protein from urea.

Assessing the Impact of Boer Goat x Indigenous Goat Crossbreeding on Reproductive Performance and Farmer Perceptions in Southern Ethiopia.

Crossbreeding aims to increase the productivity of local or indigenous animals by introducing exotic breeds. This study aims to assess the effects of crossbreeding using 50% Boer bucks crossed with Ethiopian indigenous Woyto-Guji goats and to evaluate farmers' perceptions towards crossbred kids. Data were collected from five purposively selected districts in southern Ethiopia. Personal interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs), and field observations were employed to gather information on the goat production systems and farmers' perceptions. The mean ± SD of goat flock size in the study area were 7.31 ± 5.89 heads per household (HH) with larger flock sizes observed in the Alaba zone (10.32 ± 6.56). Goats in the studied areas were primarily kept for income generation. The average age at first kidding was 11.3 ± 1.3 months. Relatively better management practices were observed for crossbred goats in the Alaba, Loko Abaya, and Gurage zones. Respondent farmers highly appreciated Boer crossbred goats due to their superior perception of attractive coat color (4.39 times greater, P < 0.001), docile behavior (3.59 times greater, P < 0.001), fast growth rate (1.64 times greater, P < 0.05), and market preference (5.81 times greater, P < 0.001). However, susceptibility to disease and drought was considered as drawbacks of crossbred kids in the studied areas. It was also reported that crossbreed goats fetched better prices than indigenous goats of a similar age group and under the same management system. All visited farmers expressed a strong interest in crossbreeding. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that Boer crossbred goats perform well in southern Ethiopia. Therefore, the continued production of crossbred kids can be disseminated to these areas. Additionally, it is suggested to consider the interests of goat producers in the remaining areas. Integrated improved management systems need to be implemented to enhance the survival of crossbred kids. Sustainable training programs should be organized for goat keepers, focusing on aspects such as crossbreeding, minimizing inbreeding, buck rotation, and improved feeding and management practices.

Sexual Dimorphisms in Body Measurement Traits of Boer Goats in South Africa

Sexual Dimorphisms in Body Measurement Traits of Boer Goats in South Africa

Histological Features of In-Stent Restenosis after Iliac Vein Thrombus Removal and Stent Placement in a Goat Model

PurposeTo establish an animal model for in-stent restenosis (ISR) after postthrombotic iliac vein stent placement and characterize histopathological changes in tissue within the stented vein. Materials and MethodsIliac vein thrombosis was induced using balloon occlusion and thrombin injection in 8 male Boer goats. Mechanical thrombectomy and iliac vein stent placement were performed 3 days after thrombosis induction. Restenosis was evaluated by venography and optical coherence tomography (OCT) at 1 and 8 weeks after stent placement, and stent specimens were taken for pathological examination after the animals were euthanized. ResultsThrombosis induction was successful in all 8 goats, with >80% iliac vein occlusion. After thrombus removal, OCT revealed considerable venous intimal thickening and a small number of mural thrombi. Neointimal hyperplasia with thrombus formation was observed in all goats 1 week after stent implantation; the degree of ISR was 15%–33%. At 8 weeks, the degree of ISR was 21%–32% in 3 goats, and stent occlusion was observed in 1 goat. At 1 week, the neointima predominantly consisted of fresh thrombi. At 8 weeks, proliferplastic fibrotic tissue and smooth muscle cells (SMCs) were predominant, and the stent surfaces were endothelialized in 2 of 3 goats and partially endothelialized in 1 goat. ConclusionsIn the goat model, postthrombotic neointimal hyperplasia in the venous stent may result from time-dependent thrombus formation and organization, accompanied by migration and proliferation of SMCs, causing ISR. These results provide a basis to further explore the mechanism of venous ISR and promote the development of venous stents that reduce neointimal hyperplasia.

Quality of boer goat liquid semen in coconut water diluent with egg yolk addition during cold storage

Quality of boer goat liquid semen in coconut water diluent with egg yolk addition during cold storage

Evaluation of estradiol and progesterone contents of Bach Thao and Boer goats during the oestrous cycle

This paper presents the results of the analysis of estradiol and progesterone contents during the oestrous cycle of Bach Thao and Boer goats at the Center for Research and Development of Large Cattle in Binh Duong province. Blood samples were taken every day between 6 and 8 a.m. for 24 consecutive days. Hormone contents were determined by electroluminescence assay with the Cobas E601 immunoassay system. The results showed that the highest increase in estradiol was observed on day 2 of the cycle with a value of 8.73±0.60 pg/ml in Bach Thao goats and a value of 13.45±1.26 pg/ml in Boer goats. Progesterone concentration reached a peak value of 7.93±0.49 ng/ml on day 14 in Bach Thao goats and reached a peak value of 8.46±0.34 ng/ml on day 13 in Boer goats. The results of this study help determine the time of estrus, choose a timely pairing for effective reproductive management, and serve as a reliable reference when using assisted reproductive tools and strategies to improve reproductive performance in goats.

Effect of Litter Size on Milk Production of Does and Pre-weaning Growth of Kids in Crosses of Boer and Peranakan Ettawa (PE) Goats

Boerawa goats (Boer x PE Crossbred) which currently have been spread and farmed in various region of Indonesia need to be monitored their productivity and development continously. The aim of this experiment was to investigating the Doe's milk production and pre-weaning growth of the Boer x PE crossbred kids on different litter sizes. The experiment was conducted at MBB Goat Breeding Farm in Klebuh Village, Praya Tengah District, Central Lombok Regency. A total of 62 PE goat doe’s consisting of 15 single kidding and 47 twins kidding doe’s, each with their crossbred Boer x PE kids, were observed intensively by measuring their performance directly. Each doe’s was fed 250 g of concentrate mix (75%) and soybean meal (25%) and Ca &amp; P minerals (0.5%) with chopped Elephant Grass basalt diet fed ad libitum. The results showed that the milk production of single kidding doe’s was lower than that of twin kidding doe’s (972 vs 814 ml/head/day). Birth weight and weaning weight of single kid were much higher (P&lt;0.05) than twins. Birth weight (3.18 vs 2.45 kg), weaning weight (11.56 vs 8.33 kg), and daily weight gain (136.32 vs 88.63 kg), for (single kid vs. twin) respectively. The use of milk and the loss of body weight of the doe’s for the formation of every 1 g of body weight in single kid is relatively higher than those of twins.

Novel FSH receptor heterodimer may be related to the high prolificacy of Jintang black goat

AbstractFollicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) is the central hormone of the mammalian reproductive system. It targets the FSH receptor (FSHR), a member of the G protein‐coupled receptor family, to induce the FSH signal transduction. In the highly prolific Jintang black goat, gonadotropin level is not higher than that of Boer goat. However, two isoforms of FSHRs (FSHRA and FSHRB), generated from the alternative splicing of the same primary FSHR transcript, were expressed in the reproductive organs of Jintang black goat simultaneously. The mRNA level of FSHRB is 45.89, 3.80, and 13.81 times greater than that of FSHRA in the hypothalamus, pituitary, and ovary of the Jintang black goat, respectively. We found that FSHRA could interact with FSHRB protein, leading to augment of the FSH signaling transduction pathway. The enhancement of FSH signaling could increase the in vitro oocyte maturation rate. It implied that this might be the important reason for the high prolificacy in Jintang black goat.

Population structure, runs of homozygosity analysis and construction of single nucleotide polymorphism fingerprinting database of Longnan goat population

AbstractThe Longnan goat (LN) is a local breed discovered during the third census of China's livestock and poultry genetic resources. In order to thoroughly comprehend the population traits, this research examined a total of 70 animals from three different goat populations, namely the LN goat, Nanjiang Brown goat (NJ), and Boer goat (Boer). Specific‐Locus Amplified Fragment Sequencing was employed to analyze genetic diversity, population structure, and selective sweep patterns. Additionally, individual DNA fingerprints were generated to provide detailed genetic profiles for each subject. A total of 643,868 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were detected, with a majority located in intergenic and intronic regions. Genetic diversity analysis uncovered lower diversity within the LN population compared to the other two populations. The analysis of population structure unveiled significant genetic distance between LN and both NJ and Boer populations, with distinct clustering patterns observed. Moreover, genetic differentiation coefficients (FST) of 0.1019 and 0.0854 were determined between LN and Boer, as well as LN and NJ, respectively, indicating substantial genetic differentiation. Selective sweep analysis, combining FST and π ratio, identified several genes associated with growth and development, reproduction, hair color, and immunity that may serve as valuable candidates for marker‐assisted breeding. Furthermore, identification of 47,541 runs of homozygosity (ROHs) revealed non‐uniform distribution across chromosomes, with the highest frequency on chromosome 1 and the lowest on chromosome 27. Correlations between different inbreeding coefficients varied, with the highest observed between FHOM and FGRM, and the lowest between FROH &gt;1.5Mb and FROH &lt;500kb. A total of 46 candidate genes were annotated within high‐frequency ROH islands, primarily associated with biological processes such as reproduction, growth and development, and immunity. Finally, a DNA fingerprint, consisting of 371 highly polymorphic SNPs, was generated and presented in the form of a two‐dimensional code for convenient access. Based on the population structure analysis, LN goats have been found to have a distant genetic distance and a higher degree of differentiation from both the Boer and NJ populations. Evaluation of genetic diversity parameters and ROH analysis indicates that the LN population exhibits lower genetic diversity and shows signs of inbreeding. Our findings offer theoretical support for the identification of genetic resources within this population.

Comparative assessment of heat and cold stress-induced changes in clinical parameters in Boer goats

This study was carried out on heat- and cold-adapted boar goats kept in their natural habitat to examine the physiological parameters and their seasonal fluctuations in relation to the adaptation to heat stress in boar goats. The study was conducted in two distinct stages that corresponded with the winter and summer seasons. Under the experiment, twelve experimental boar goats of both sexes were chosen at randomly. The goats were 1.5 to 2 years old and weighed between 16 to 22 kg. The temperature-humidity index (THI) was calculated by recording the daily temperature of the surrounding air and relative humidity using a digital hygrometer and thermometer that were placed in the animal shed. In this study, Heart rate (HR), respiration rate (RR), and rectal temperature (RT) were combined to determine physiological markers for thermal stress susceptibility. The temperature-humidity index (THI) was calculated by observing the daily ambient temperature and relative humidity. The THI value of summer and winter season were 31.67 and 15.34, respectively. The findings of this study revealed that the levels of physiological responses, such as rectal temperature, respiration rate, and heart rate, were significantly (p 0.05) differed throughout seasons (summer and winter) and recording periods. It has been discovered that THI, a sensitive indicator of both heat and cold stress, is more affected by ambient temperature in boar goats than relative humidity. Therefore, in Boar goats, heat and cold stress is related to certain physiological effects.

Effect of the addition of platelet-rich plasma to Boer buck semen on sperm quality and antioxidant activity before and after cryopreservation and in vivo fertility

The current study aimed to investigate the effects of incorporating platelet-rich plasma (PRP) into Boer buck semen at different stages of cryopreservation (dilution, equilibration, and post-thawing) on sperm quality, functionality, antioxidant activity, and in vivo fertility. One hundred sixty ejaculates were collected from eight Boer goat bucks over ten weeks during the breeding season. The semen samples were collected using an artificial vagina, evaluated, and pooled. The pooled semen was divided into four aliquots, then diluted with a Tris-based extender supplemented with varying proportions of PRP (0%, 5%, 10%, and 15%). Subsequently, the samples were equilibrated and cryopreserved. The results showed that semen supplemented with 10% PRP has significantly higher total motility (P < 0.05) compared to the control and other groups during (dilution and equilibration) and after (post-thawing) cryopreservation. Furthermore, semen supplemented with 5% and 10% PRP significantly improved (P < 0.05) rapid sperm movement compared to the control and 15% PRP groups after equilibration and post-thawing. However, compared to the control, the supplementation of 10% PRP resulted in improved sperm progressive motility and viability during and after cryopreservation (P < 0.05), as well as increased acrosome, plasma membrane integrity, and mitochondrial membrane potential after equilibration and post-thawing of the semen (P < 0.05). Moreover, 10% PRP-supplemented semen exhibited higher levels of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase (CAT) and lower levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) after equilibration and post-thawing compared to the control and 15% PRP groups. The pregnancy and kidding rates were higher (80%; 80%) for 10% PRP-supplemented semen compared to the control (48%; 40%), respectively, and other groups. In conclusion, the addition of PRP improved the cryo-tolerance of Boer buck sperm by enhancing quality, functionality, antioxidant activity, and in vivo fertility.

Genomic characterization and diversity of indigenous goat breeds from Croatia

Goats have been undervalued and marginalized in the past despite their high productivity compared to other ruminants. Today, many goat breeds encounter the threat of extinction due to factors such as small population size, geographic isolation, lack of economic competition, and declining interest in breeding. In order to determine the population structure and level of diversity of Croatian goats, we conducted population-level SNP genotyping. The aim of our study was to evaluate the genetic relatedness between Croatian breeds and other European goat breeds. We genotyped a total of 44 animals representing native Croatian goat breeds, including the Croatian Colored Goat (CCG) and the Istrian Goat (CIG), with the Illumina Goat_IGGC_65K_v2. We also included publicly available goat breeds from Europe, mainly from the Mediterranean region. The two indigenous Croatian goat breeds differ in morphological and productive traits, which is reflected in their genetic diversity and breed segregation. While CCG showed clear breed separation and genetic similarity to Balkan breeds, CIG showed higher heterogeneity with genetic closenes to Austrian Alpine breeds. PCA, Admixture and TreeMix analyses did not detect any genetic influence of Boer goat on Croatian goat breeds. Despite the small effective population size of the Istrian Goat (Ne = 27), both breeds show a high degree of genetic variability with low inbreeding (FROH>2Mb = 0.054 and FROH>2Mb = 0.059, for CCG and CIG, respectively). However, the Istrian Goat requires careful conservation planning due to the small number of individuals and limited breeding area. Our results could be valuable for future conservation and breeding programmes aimed at conserving and sustainably using these important genetic resources.

375 Effects of Breed Type and Gender on Performance, Feeding Behavior, and Feed Efficiency in Growing goats

Abstract The objectives of this study were to examine the effects of gender and breed type on performance, feed efficiency, and feeding behavior traits in growing goats. The trial was conducted with 36 intact male (n = 16) and female (n = 20) goats of 4 breed types;12 purebred Spanish, 12 F1 Spanish x Boer (dam-sire), 8 F1 Boer x Spanish, and 4 purebred Boer. Goats with initial BW of 30.9 ± 6.0 kg and 38.8 ± 7.4 kg for females and males, respectively, were fed a concentrate diet in pens equipped with electronic feed bunks (GrowSafe System). Individual dry matter intake (DMI) and feeding behavior traits were collected daily for 44 d and BW measured weekly. Residual feed intake (RFI) was calculated as the residual from the regression of DMI on ADG and mid-test BW0.75. Feeding behavior traits evaluated were frequency and duration of bunk visit (BV) events, head-down (HD) duration, BV eating rate (BVER), and day-to-day variation of these traits, defined as the root mean squared error (RMSE) from linear regression of each trait on the day of trial. A mixed model (JMP) with fixed effects of gender, breed type, and gender x breed type interaction with pen as a random effect was used. Gender x breed type interactions were not significant for any traits. Male goats had heavier (P &amp;lt; 0.01) initial and final BW, but similar ADG during the trial. Male goats consumed more (P &amp;lt; 0.05) DMI, but had similar F:G and RFI compared with female goats. Gender did not affect feeding behavior traits, but male goats had greater BVER and more (P &amp;lt; 0.05) day-to-day variation in DMI than female goats. Purebred Boer goats had heavier (P &amp;lt; 0.05) initial and final BW and greater ADG than purebred Spanish and both F1 crosses. However, DMI and RFI were not affected by breed type. G:F was greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) in Boer and Boer x Spanish goats (0.183, 0.153) than Spanish goats (0.115), with Spanish x Boer (0.132) goats being intermediate. Breed type did not affect feeding behavior traits in this trial. Minimal effects of gender and breed type on feed efficiency were detected in growing goats in this trial. Further research is warranted to examine effects of breed type on life-cycle feed efficiency including growing goats and female goats during pregnancy and lactation.