Blitar, November 2024 – Lecturers from the Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Brawijaya (Fapet UB) are conducting research on Growth Trait Analysis of DEG Sheep, Awassi Crossbreed, and Dorper Crossbreed Based on Morphometrics as an Indicator of Body Weight. This research, conducted from September to November 2024 in Blitar Regency, is led by Muhammad Pramujo, S.Pt., M.Si., with team members Prof. Dr. Ir. Sucik Maylinda and Prof. Dr. Ir. Luqman Hakim, MS.
The research stems from the researchers’ interest in understanding the morphometric comparisons between DEG sheep, Awassi Crossbreed, and Dorper Crossbreed. The data obtained from this study is expected to serve as a basis for developing strategies for both local sheep and crossbreeds between local and exotic sheep such as Awassi and Dorper. As relatively new imported livestock in Indonesia, Awassi and Dorper sheep require an assessment of their suitability to local environmental conditions, particularly in Blitar, which is known for its ample feed availability.
“This research is highly beneficial for farmers, especially those focusing on sheep breeding. Morphometric information within sheep populations can be a crucial basis for selection and crossbreeding to produce superior offspring,” stated Muhammad Pramujo, the head of the research team.
Both qualitative and quantitative characteristics of the sheep are essential aspects of this analysis. Observations are conducted to assess the sheep’s adaptive capacity, with a focus on quantitative traits such as body size and weight gain. Additionally, qualitative traits are evaluated to observe the breed’s authenticity by comparing their morphometric characteristics with their original traits.
In West Java, crossing Garut sheep with Dorper sheep has shown promising results, yielding sheep with low-fat content (lean meat). Therefore, this study will also examine the phenotypic variation of both qualitative and quantitative traits in Awassi and Dorper sheep in Blitar, which is expected to significantly contribute to the development of sheep breeding programs.
This research is funded by PNBP funds from the Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Brawijaya, in collaboration with CV. DWI TUNGGAL MANDIRI (DTM), a company specializing in livestock facilities and infrastructure.
The findings from this research are anticipated to provide valuable insights for farmers in developing efficient and superior sheep breeding practices. mtn
