Phenological characterization of Mozambican native caprine breeds assessed through morpho-biometric traits and zoometric indices

Culhe, D.; Matola, M.; Muatareque, E.; Morrombe, M.; Manhique, M. P.; Tseu, R.; Changule, A. P.; Taela, M.; Bila, C.; Garcia-Herreros, M.

doi:10.1101/2025.08.15.670476

bioRxiv · 10.1101/2025.08.15.670476

Phenological characterization of Mozambican native caprine breeds assessed through morpho-biometric traits and zoometric indices

Culhe, D.·Matola, M.·Muatareque, E.·Morrombe, M.·Manhique, M. P.·Tseu, R.·Changule, A. P.·Taela, M.·Bila, C.·Garcia-Herreros, M.

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Abstract

This study aimed to characterize the morpho-structural traits of indigenous goats reared at the Chobela Research Station in the Magude District of southern Mozambique. A total of 135 goats were randomly selected, comprising 77 Landim and 60 Pafuri animals. Racial characteristics were assessed through visual inspection, while morphometric traits were measured using a zoometric tape. Descriptive statistics and independent samples t-tests were performed at a 5% significance level using SPSS version 27. In terms of racial traits, all Pafuri goats exhibited a convex facial profile, whereas Landim goats showed both convex (57.9%) and concave (42.1%) profiles. Approximately 75% of the goats presented a uniform coat colour. Morphometric comparisons revealed that Landim goats had higher average values for horn length (mean difference, MD: 0.21 cm), withers height (MD: 0.14 cm), and body length (MD: 0.24 cm). In contrast, Pafuri goats had greater head length (MD: 0.18 cm), head width (MD: 0.11 cm), ear length (MD: 0.09 cm), and thoracic perimeter (MD: 0.26 cm). Regarding zoometric indices, Landim goats recorded higher body (1.71), cephalic (0.31), and thoracic (1.31) index values, while Pafuri goats exhibited a slightly higher proportionality index (0.40). The morpho-structural differences identified between Landim and Pafuri goats demonstrate distinct phenotypic profiles that can support breed characterization. These results provide a valuable baseline for future genetic studies and contribute to conservation and sustainable utilization strategies for indigenous goat populations in Mozambique.

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Culhe, D., Matola, M., Muatareque, E., Morrombe, M., Manhique, M. P., Tseu, R., Changule, A. P., Taela, M., Bila, C., Garcia-Herreros, M.. 2025-08-20. Phenological characterization of Mozambican native caprine breeds assessed through morpho-biometric traits and zoometric indices. https://doi.org/10.1101/2025.08.15.670476

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