Morphological and Zoometrical Indices for Assessing Ethnological and Functional Traits in Red Sokoto Does and Other Nigerian Indigenous Goat Populations

Abstract

This study assessed morphological and zoometrical traits of Red Sokoto does within Kano metropolis and compared them with Sahel goats across Nigeria. Forty-seven Red Sokoto does were evaluated using twelve linear body measurements to derive key morpho-functional indices. Heart girth showed a strong positive correlation with body weight, supporting its use for field weight prediction. Conformation and Compactness Indices increased significantly with age and parity, reflecting enhanced functional traits in mature, multiparous does. Most indices showed low variation, indicating genetic stability, while moderate variability in Body Length Index suggested potential for selection. A broader comparison with Sahel goats (n = 100) revealed significant inter-breed differences, particularly in pelvic structure. Overall, Nigerian indigenous goats were medium-sized with meat-type conformations. These results highlight the genetic diversity and structural soundness of Red Sokoto goats, providing valuable insights for sustainable breeding, conservation, and productivity improvement strategies.