Study on Growth Performances of R1 Lacaune x Turcana Crossbred Lambs under Highlands Rearing Conditions

Abstract

Aim of the current research was to evaluate the effects that back-crossbreeding F1 Lacaune x Turcana ewes with Lacaune rams has on the growth rates of the R1 progeny under highlands conditions. Researches were carried out at the Sheep and Goats Research & Development Station from Caransebes. Lacaune rams have been bought and mated to purebred Turcana ewes managed under an annual lambing system. F1 Lacaune x Turcana crossbreed female lambs were kept for reproduction purposes, and mated at the age of 18-20 months with pedigreed Lacaune rams, in order to produce and test the growth rates of the R1 backcross lambs. At weaning, lambs from the backcrossing had an average body weight of 20.57 kg, while the Turcana lambs had 16.73 kg at the same age. Differences being statistically significant (p<0.001). Average daily gain of the backcross lambs during the first 28 days of life, was on average 225.80 g/day, significantly higher (p<0.01) than ones registered by the controls, who registered averages of 179.95 g/day. Lacaune rams seem to significantly (p<0.01) improve growth rates of the crossbred lambs, especially during the first period of life (0-56 days).

Keywords

• average daily gain
• growth rates
• indigenous breeds
• lacaune rams
• turcana