Adaptation features of sheep of the Edilbaev breed reared  in the agroecological conditions of the arid zones   of Southern Russia

Abstract

Aim. The aim of the research was to study the features of formation of adaptive ability, meat productivity and quality indicators of mutton obtained in the arid conditions of the Volga region from sheep of the Edilbaev breed of different genotypes. Material and Methods. A package of teaching materials has been developed concerning an increase in the productive qualities of different genotypes of the studied breed in the conditions of arid regions of southern Russia. Results. The authors’ research has demonstrated the high adaptive abilities of animals of the Edilbaev breed, their economic and biological qualities, food and taste indicators of their meat, as well as the possibility of further development of the breed in the arid conditions of southern Russia. As a research base, we selected the Volgograd‐Edilbay LLC breeding farm (the world's only breeding and genetic center for raising Edilbaev sheep) which is located in the Volgograd region and specializes in breeding pure‐bred animals in arid steppe, semi‐desert and desert zones. Due to the great demand for the livestock of this breed from farms located in arid territories, this study of the comparative aspects of production characteristics of animals of original and new types in the arid conditions of the Volga region is of interest to both science and practical animal husbandry. Conclusion. An assessment of the nutritional value of mutton obtained from animals of the Edilbaev breed has shown its high nutritional and biological qualities.

Keywords

• sheep breeding
• edilbaev sheep breed
• rams
• lamb
• natural pastures
• arid territories
• genotype
• slaughter indicators