Estimation of phenotypic and genetic trends of the growth traits in Lipska and Svrljig sheep

Abstract

Some phenotypic and genetic trends on growth traits of lambs are observed. The research implicated lambs of two local breeds of sheep: Lipska (LP) and Svrljig (SV). All lambs were weighed for the first time at birth (BWB), and thereafter, regularly in two-week intervals. On the basis of the results during weighing the body weight (BW) were adjusted to the average age: 30 (BW30), 60 (BW60) and 90 days (BW90). Results of the effect of genotype on growth showed a significant effect on the growth traits. Sex of lambs had a significant effect at birth and very significant effect at 30 days, but had no significant effect on weight at 60 (BW60) and 90 (BW90) days. Birth type had significant effect on the body weight from birth to weaning and the highest body weights were recorded in singles. Phenotypic correlations were positive and very highly significant between the growth traits. Genetic correlations were significant, but not between all observed ages of lambs.