Evaluation of Productive and Reproductive Performances of Gumuz, Felata and Agew Goat Breeds in Metekel Zone, Benishangul Gumuz Ethiopia

Abstract

Goat production is one of the key practices of livestock farming mainly in the lowland of the country. This study was undertaken to evaluate the production and reproduction potential of the Agew, Felata and Gumuz goat breeds in Metekel zone of Benishangul-Gumuz Regional State. Thirty goats from each of the three breeds making a total flock size of 90 were purchased from the local markets and kept on-station under uniform management conditions for performance evaluation during the period of 2016 to 2022. The appropriate flock management and health care were employed throughout the study period. Growth and reproductive performance data were collected for six consecutive years and the data were subjected to analysis using the General Linear Model Procedures of the Statistical Analysis System (SAS). Average birth weights recorded for Felata, Gumuz and Agew were 2.22±0.03, 2.01±0.02 and 2.03±0.02kg, respectively. Breed, birth year, season of birth, birth type, and sex had significant effect (P<0.001) on birth weight of kids. The overall least square means of birth weights of single, twins and triplets were 2.18±0.02, 2.01±0.02, and 1.78±0.05 kg, respectively. Breed, birth year, and season had significant effect on litter size of goats. The highest average weaning weight was attained by Felata goats (7.38±0.25 kg) and the lowest being for Agew goats (6.27±0.13 kg). The average yearling weight reached at 18.01±0.57 kg for Felata goats, 17.01±0.32 kg for Gumuz goats and 16.77±0.31 kg for Agew goats. The average age at first service for Felata, Gumuz, and Agew goats were 258.36±3.82, 231.05±2.11 and 240.20±2.70 days respectively. Similarly, the average age at first kidding was 413.84±10.63 days for Felata, 378.89±7.04 kg for Gumuz and 394.47±7.44 days for Agew goats. Thus, it can be concluded that under the same management condition in most performance parameters of Gumuz goat breeds was higher than Agew and Felata Goats. Therefore, Gumuz goats should be improved by establishing a community-based breeding program.