Morphometric and production traits characterization of malvi sheep in malwa region of Madhya Pradesh
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: The present study was undertaken to characterize the morphometric, productive, reproductive, wool, and carcass traits of the indigenous Malvi sheep population reared in the Malwa and Nimar regions of Madhya Pradesh, India. Field surveys were conducted across 285 villages covering 138 representative flocks, and phenotypic observations were recorded from 6,358 animals. Morphometric measurements were taken from 1,250 male and 1,350 female Malvi sheep. Malvi sheep are medium-to-large sized animals exhibiting variable coat colours with characteristic dark patches, a slightly convex facial profile, pendulous ears, and absence of horns. Adult body weight averaged 39.25 ± 1.85 kg in rams and 33.50 ± 1.30 kg in ewes, indicating superior growth performance under extensive management. Average daily milk yield was 310.50 ± 4.25 ml with a lactation yield of 30.50 ± 1.5 kg. Reproductive performance showed age at first lambing of 464.50 ± 4.5 days, litter size of 1.25 ± 0.10, and lambing rate of 64.50 ± 1.3%. Greasy fleece weight averaged 1.50 ± 0.05 kg, while dressing percentage reached 59.5% in males and 58.5% in females. The findings highlight the Malvi sheep as a valuable genetic resource possessing good growth, carcass yield, reproductive efficiency, and adaptation to semi-arid environments.
Institution: Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University
Language: English
Subfield: Genetics
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7202054489