Phenotypic diversity and carcass quality of creole goats with genetic potential for resistance to infection caused by worm

Abstract: The objective of this work was to phenotypically characterize creole goats of the Moxotó, Azul, Canindé, Repartida, Marota, and Graúna breeds, comparing them with the Boer, Anglo Nubian, and Alpine exotic breeds, to identify the genetic groups of greater potential for carcass quality and resistance to infection caused by worm. Data on morphometric measurements were obtained for the count of worm eggs in grams of feces (WEGF), Famacha score, carcass measurements, and body weight from 308 animals, in a farm in the state of Piauí, Brazil. Repartida goats showed the highest average for wither height (61.55 cm) and rump height (62.16 cm), and Moxotó goats had the greatest ear length (13.45 cm). The Moxotó breed showed the highest means for carcass and body weight. The lowest average for body weight was observed in Azul goats (24.35 kg), and the lowest WEGF was detected in Repartida goats (200 eggs per gram of feces). The average Famacha score was 2.77. Average linkage was the method that best summarized the information on the morphometric and carcass data. The use of morphometric and carcass measurements provides satisfactory results in the phenotypic characterization of the animals. The Brazilian creole goats, which are considered resistant to worm infection and show high-quality carcass traits, may be indicated for conservation and genetic breeding programs.