Phenotypic characterization of the Muturu and Bunaji breeds of cattle at different age groups

Abstract

This study was carried out in Ebonyi and Kogi States of Nigeria. Ranched animals were used for the study. A total of one hundred and fifty-two (152) consisting of 76 each of Muturu and Bunaji cattle breeds were used for the study. The study was a symmetrical factorial (2 × 2 × 5) arrangement in a complete randomized design (CRD). The factors include breeds of cattle (Muturu and Bunaji), sex and age groups (one to five years). Linear body traits were measured on individual Muturu and Bunaji cattle with the aid of a flexible tape. A weighing balance was used to take the weight of the animals. The animals were restrained by their handlers to ease the body measurements. Body linear traits (BLT) were measured in centimetres (cm) while BWT was measured in kilograms (kg). The age of the individual animal was determined by the number of the rings on their horns while the polled animal's age was determined by their dentition also Muturu and Bunaji owners have the age records of their animals. The best parameters that predict BWT using BLT were CGH and BLH. The result of this study reveals that the Muturu cattle had lower values for BLT (HWS, CGH, BLH, FLH and TLH) than the Bunaji breed. The study indicates that certain linear parameters varied significantly between Bunaji and Muturu cattle breeds. These differences suggest distinct morphological features unique to each breed. Bunaji cattle exhibited a notable increase in ELH, HLH and FLH compared to Muturu.