AGB 211: Livestock and Poultry Breeding (2+1)

MARWARI

Distribution

Marwari region of Rajasthan, comprising Jodhpur, Pal, Nagaur, Bikaner, Jalore, Jaisalmer and Barmer districts. The breed also extends into certain areas of Gujarat, especially Mehsana district. The total goat population in the Marwari distribution area, according to the 1972 census, was 3.914 m, of which 0.072 m adult males and 2.484 m adult females.

Breed characteristics

	Adult males	Adult females
Body weight	33.18	25.85
Body length	70.97	63.51
Height at withers	74.74	69.29
Chest girth	71.68	68.60

Conformation

Medium-sized animals. Predominantly black with long shaggy hair coat. In about 5% of individuals, white or brown patches are also observed. Beard is present in both sexes. Ears are flat, medium in length and drooping; ear length: 16.38 + 0.20 cm. Both sexes have short, pointed horns, directed upward and backward; horn length: 10.10 + 0.18 cm. Tail is small and thin. Udder is small and round, with small teats placed laterally. Average flock size: 46.0 to 48.0 (range: from l0 to 100) containing 0.6 adult males, 36.4 adult females and 11.0 young.

Reproduction

Kidding percentage	52.5
Singles	Generally

Breeding

Pure breeding. Breeding males are selected on size and hair production; on, mostly from within the flock. The Animal Husbandry Department of the Government of Rajasthan has introduced cross-breeding with Jamnapari; to increase milk production.

Performance

Milk
Lactation yield (kg)	91.39
Lactation length (days)	105.80
Meat (Kg)
At birth	2.29
At weaning	6.00
6 months	8.70
9 months	13.70
12 months	16.25
Hair (g. per year) 302.9