Characterization of indigenous cattle genotypes based on blood parameters in the humid tropics

Abstract

Total of 18 growing cattle comprising 6 cattle each from white Fulani (WF), N’dama (ND) and WF x ND were used to characterize the Nigerian local cattle genotypes based on blood parameters in a randomized complete block design (RCBD). Parameters measured were packed cell volume (PCV) (%), haemoglobin (Hb) (g/dL), white blood cell (WBC/Lx10⁹), red blood cell (RBC/Lx10¹²), total blood protein (BPT) (g/dL), Platelet (PLT)(Fl) and Albumin (ALB)(g/dL). Results showed that PCV, Hb, WBC, RBC, BPT, and PLT were significantly (p<0.05) higher in WF x ND. The PCV and WBC were significantly different (p<0.05) among the genotypes. The RBC was significantly different (p<0.05) among the genotypes. BPT was significantly (p<0.05) high in ND and also highest values in WF. The parameters studied showed that WBC, RBC and Hb can be effectively incorporated in the selection process of WF, ND and WFxND therefore, could be used as indicators of good health of Nigerian indigenous cattle in the study area.

Key words: indigenous cattle; genotypes; blood parameters, selection