Morphometric Variations Exist Among Native Cattle of Bhutan

Abstract

For effective conservation and utilization of cattle gene pool consisting of native characterization is important. Therefore, the objective of the study was to assess some morphometric variations in Bhutanese native cattle breed. A total 101 adult animals were included belong to Mithun (5), Siri (bull = 14, cow = 14), Siri cow cross Mithun bull (bull = 20, cow = 20), first backcross hybrids (bull = 14, cow = 14). ANOVA was performed to test the level of significance among the populations. Bulls were superior to cows in body and head sizes and shapes. Among seven populations, Jatsha and Mithun were proportionately larger. On contrary, Thrabum (Siri cows) were comparatively smaller in body sizes and shapes (p <0.05). Moreover, dendrogram suggest that the populations could be clustered into two main groups. Hence, this information will assist in developing conservation strategies for native cattle in Bhutan.