Pre-weaning growth parameters of Libyan Barbary lambs in three regions in northeast of Libya

• F. AKRAIM

  Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Omar Al-Mukhtar University

  Author

• I. M. Mahasan

  Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Omar Al-Mukhtar University

  Author

• A. A. Mohamed

  Department of Animal Production

  Author

• N. S. Bosaif

  Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Omar Al-Mukhtar University

  Author

This study was conducted to investigate the pre-weaning growth parameters of Barbary lambs in small-holder farms in three regions in Libya located between 20.5-34 east and 32.1-32.7 north (Koroum Al-Khial, Al-Awsaita and Al-Abyar). The study was conducted during lambing season (1999-2000). Thirty six males and 36 females were randomly chosen from each of three flocks owned by farmers. Birth weights were 3.401 and 3.144 kg for males and females respectively, effect of sex was evident (P< 0.05). 

Pre-weaning daily gains were 0.183; 0.187 kg and 120 days adjusted weaning weights were 25.391; 25.623 kg for males and females respectively. There was no sex effect on these traits (P> 0.05). Mean of real weaning age was 101 days for lambs and a notable variability was found  in this trait. Birth weight in Koroum Al-Khial ( 3.081 kg) was lower than the other two regions (P< 0.05). Daily gain (0.209 kg), adjusted weaning weight (28.469 kg) were higher and real weaning age (80.079 days) was shorter in Al-Awsaita in comparison with the other two regions (P<0.05). This could be attributed to the availability of pasture and farm residues in this region. Growth parameters of lambs in small-holder farms were comparable to or above those obtained in research stations. Further studies on the management systems in small-holder farms are needed. 

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