Mathematical functions for the prediction of growth in Indian dromedary genotypes

Abstract

The data belonging to Bikaneri, Jaisalmeri, Kachchhi breeds and Arabcross (Arab× Bikaneri) camels maintained at the National Research Centre on Camel, Bikaner, India from the year 1984 to 2005 was analyzed. All animals were measured from birth to the day last in the herd or up to 20 years of age. Care was taken to weigh the animals before they were sent out for grazing. Pregnant females and sick animals were avoided. Animals receiving special feed, fodder or attention due to their allotment to different experiments were excluded from the herd and hence not measured. Pregnant females after calving and sick animals after recovery were measured. Animals considered absolutely normal after experimentation were taken back in the herd and measured, and rest were culled. From birth to 36 months of age, the weights were taken at an interval of 3 months and thereafter annual weights till 20 years of age were considered for analysis. Statistical analysis: The least squares analysis of variance was carried out to study the effect of breed, sex and year on