Phenotypic characterization of a lesser known Macherla goat of Andhra Pradesh

Abstract

A study was conducted to physically characterize the lesser-known indigenous Macherla goat of Andhra Pradesh, involving a survey of 771 randomly sampled individuals from 24 villages within the breeding tract. The research focused on habitat, body biometry, and growth patterns of these goats. The Macherla goats were observed to be of medium to large size, exhibiting three primary coat color patterns: predominantly patchy (84.6%), with plain (12.0%) and spotted (3.4%) patterns being less common. Horn morphology revealed that curved horns were most prevalent (59.4%), followed by straight horns (40.6%). In terms of ear morphology, pendulous ears were noted in 100% of the population. The head profile predominantly featured a slightly convex shape (93.0%), with straight head type 7.0%. Tail shapes included both curved and straight variations, while the back exhibited both straight and sloping characteristics, and the rump was primarily sloping.The overall least-squares mean for height at withers for individuals over 36 months was recorded at 91.0 ± 0.6 cm. Specifically, bucks measured an average of 96.5 ± 1.0 cm, whereas does measured 85.4 ± 0.4 cm. Statistical analysis indicated that sex had a significant effect (P< 0.01) on body measurements in the >36month age group. The least-squares means for body length and chest girth for individuals over 36 months were 83.8 ± 0.6 cm and 86.0 ± 0.6 cm, respectively. Adult body weights for individuals over 36 months were 54.0 ± 0.7 kg for males and 42.0 ± 0.3 kg for females.