Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Table 1.4
Characteristics of adaptation by goats to different tropical climates.
Feeding behavior/feed
utilization
Type of climate
Anatomical
Morphological
Physiological
Metabolism
Products
Meat/milk/
fi ber
Arid/semi - arid
Large size (30 -
50 kg), long
legs and ears;
scrotum
shows two
distinct sacs
White, black, or
brown coat
color; shiny
surface; white-
colored goats
absorb less
amounts of solar
radiation
Panting, sweating, and
cooling
Increased
mobilization of
fat during
periods of feed
shortage; lower
water turnover
rate
Browse over long distances;
resistance to dehydration;
desiccation of feces;
increased concentration and
reduced urine volume;
rumen acts as water
reservoir; higher digestive
effi ciency of coarse
roughages; effi cient use and
retention of nitrogen
Subtropical
Intermediate size
(25 - 30 kg)
White, black, or
brown coat
color; less shiny
coat
Panting and sweating
Lower water
turnover rate
Intermediate
Meat/milk/
fi ber
Humid/
subhumid
Small/dwarf size
(10 - 25kg)
short legs;
small ears
Mainly black or
brown coat
color; shiny coat
Reduced panting and
evaporative cooling
due to humidity and
also more shade
Low metabolic
rate; restricted
pituitary function
Reduced walking due to
increased availability of
forages and crop residues
Meat
Source: Devendra, 1987 .
