Lesser known ovine germplasm—An underevaluated asset of India

Abstract

India has a diverse sheep population numbering 63.0 million in parallel with its diverse ecology, production system and communities. National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR), Karnal, established by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) India, initiated activities aimed at determining the comprehensive phenotypic and genotypic characteristics to provide a nation wide frame work for the management of sheep genetic resources of the country. Only around 25% of the country’s estimated sheep population which comprises 40 traditionally recognized breeds has been exploited so far through surveys on native tracts and molecular characterization of their blood samples. Rich ovine genetic diversity of India, however, remains meagerly explored. This report based on the review of published/ unpublished information discerns for the first time a total of 47 lesser-known sheep groups categorized into breeds/ populations (19), strains (11), varieties (5) and recent derivatives (12). Wherever possible the lesser known sheep are described in terms of physical characteristics, eco-regional distribution, community/tribal affinity, utility, special qualities and socio-cultural significance. Recommendations made for effective characterization, documentation, management and conservation of lesser known sheep are further highlighted.