Several Structural Characteristics of the Skin of Patanwadi Sheep and its Crosses with Reference to their Association with Wool Yield
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Date
1983
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TANUVAS
Abstract
Skin biopsies from four genetic groups of Patanwadi and its crossed with Russian Merino sheep, were obtained first at the age of 4-8 months and again at the age of 16-18 months from the same animals. First year wool yield and skin thickness were recorded in second age group only from Patanwadi and Patanwadi x Russian Merino. Angle of emergence of the fibres, was measured in Patanwadi and Patanwadi x Russian Merino in both the age groups. Follicle curvature index was calculated. Follicle density, secondary to primary follicle ration, first year wool yield, and slope of angle of emergence of the follicle increased and follicle diameter, follicle depth, follicle chord and skin thickness decreased with increase in Russian Merino inheritance. Follicle curvature index decreased from Patanwadi to Patanwadi x Russian Merino. Differences between the age groups within the genetic groups, for density, secondary to primary follicle ratio and follicle curvature index were non-significant, indicating the completion of new secondary follicle development by the age of 4-8 months. This trend of follicle curvature index with advancement of age within a genetic group, observed in easily obtained 1/3mm vertical sections cut by a razor blade, may serve as a useful tool to locate high wool producing ram lambs, at an early age if it is desirable associated with wool traits and which in turn may minimize the cost of rearing the stock upto the age of first year wool yield (16-18 months).
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Keywords
Skin of Patanwadi, Wool Yield