The effect of genotype and birth type on gestation length and linear body measurements of crossbred Nigerian goats

The research was conducted in Enugu State University of Science and Technology, in the then Abakaliki campus in the Small Ruminant Research and Multiplication Unit, Department of Animal Science and Fisheries. The records were obtained from 60 does of crossbred Nigerian goats from three genotypes (WADG x RSG-main cross; RSG x WADG reciprocal cross and RSG x F 1 – F 1 backcross). They were housed and managed under semi-intensive system. The animals were fed with concentrates at 200 – 300g per goat per day and allowed to browse on the university paddock between 1500 – 1700pm. Weekly weights and live body measurements of the kids were recorded from weaning till 20 weeks of age. The results indicate that genotype of the animals and birth type had significant (P Agro-Science Vol. 6 (2) 2007: pp. 48-51