Breeding soundness examination of native Omani bucks

Abstract

Goats are the most important livestock in the Sultanate of Oman. There are three major goat breeds in Oman: Dhofari, Batina, and Jabal Akhdar. At present, the breeding bucks are selected on basis of physical appearance. Taller and heavier bucks are preferred. No breeding soundness examination (BSE) is performed before animals are used for breeding. The objectives of the study were to evaluate reproductive potential of Omani bucks utilizing established criteria for BSE. Fifty bucks (19 Dhofari, 18 Batinah, 13 Jabal Akhdar), 1-5 years old were evaluated for breeding soundness, including physical examination, body weight (BW), scrotal circumference (SC), semen collection and evaluation. There was a significant difference in BW (P<0.001) and in SC (P<0.01) between Dhofari, Batinah and Jabal Akhdar. It is concluded that BSE should be performed to evaluate Omani bucks intended for breeding, and for semen preservation of genetically superior bucks; to facilitate artificial insemination for genetic improvement; and preservation of biodiversity in Omani goats.