Evaluating morphometric traits and body indices in Dorper sheep in Indonesia: A comparative analysis of four generations

Abstract

This research examined the morphometric characteristics of Dorper sheep over four generations (G0 to G3) in Indonesia. Most parameters exhibited significant differences between generations. The G0 generation had the longest body length (67.95 ± 0.73 cm) and heaviest weight (56.58 ± 1.60 kg), with a subsequent decline in G1 and partial recovery in G2 and G3, likely due to genetic or environmental influences. Chest depth and girth followed a similar trend, with G0 animals having the deepest chests (27.75 ± 0.36 cm) and increased girth observed in G2 and G3. The height at the withers and rump rose from G0 to G1, then fell in G3, while chest and rump width were more pronounced in G2. The height index rose in G1 (104.46 ± 0.99) compared to G0 (80.86 ± 0.68), indicating a change in body shape. The compact index was highest in G0 (1.01 ± 0.02) and decreased in later generations, especially in G1 (0.65 ± 0.02), suggesting a more elongated body. The body weight index was highest in G0, with decreases noted in G2 and G3. Forelimb length was greater in G1 and G2. There was no significant variation in body index, body ratio, and over increase index across generations. Correlation analysis showed positive relationships among traits, with body weight most strongly correlated with chest depth. Principal component analysis identified body length, weight, chest depth, and girth as key distinguishing variables. These findings offer insights into the morphological evolution of IDS and highlight traits advantageous for selective breeding programs.