Morphological characterization of local pigs in Ghana

Abstract

Characterization is essential for conservation and sustainable utilization of farm animal genetic resources, especially local breeds that are often less fancied due to their relatively low production potential. A total of 163 local Ashanti Dwarf pigs (ADP) and their crossbreds with exotic breeds, sampled from six regions of Ghana were characterized morphologically following FAO’s methodology on phenotypic characterization of Animal Genetic Resources (AnGR). Results indicated no significant (p > 0.05) effect of type of breed and sex on linear body measurements. There was a significant (p < 0.05) effect of location on linear body measurements. Local pigs presented concave head profile (85.89%), black coat colour type (67.48%), plain coat colour pattern, erect ear type (84.66%), projecting backwards (52.15%) and a short and cylindrical snout type (62.58%). A greater number of the local pigs (70.55%) showed aggressive temperament. The data gathered from this study should contribute to the development of sustainable conservation schemes for local pig genetic resources and prevent their extinction.

Keywords; characterization, morphological, ADP, conservation