Linear Body Measurements and Slaughter Characteristics of Meat Goats in the Semi-Arid Zone of North-Western Nigeria

Thirty two intact male goats representing eight replicates of two breeds (Sokoto Red Versus Sahel) and two ages (Young Versus Mature) were investigated for linear body measurements and conformational traits. All linear body measurements had higher values (P < 0.05) in the Sahel except for chest measurements of girth, width and depth, which did not differ significantly between breeds. Mature goats had significantly higher values in all linear measurements than young goats. All carcass measurements were also higher (P < 0.05) in Sahel and mature goats except carcass width which did not differ between breeds. All conformational traits; slaughter weight, Body mass index (BMI) empty body weight and carcass weight were higher (P < 0.05) in mature goats. Sahel goats also had significantly higher values of conformational traits except for BMI where the Sokoto Red was superior (46.20 versus 41.45). It was observed that age had a greater influence on the traits investigated than breed.