干旱区生态环境知识资源中心

The study was undertaken to adjudge the relative physiological adaptability and growth performance of Malpura (native) and Bharat Merino (crossbred) female lambs born in autumn season in semi-arid region. Eight native (Malpura) and 8 crossbred (Bharat Merino) lambs were utilized for this study. All the lambs were reared under standard farm management practices throughout the study. The various physiological responses were recorded at 8:00hr and 14:00hr at monthly interval right from birth to 180 days of age. The respiration rate and pulse rate in crossbred lambs were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in morning and in afternoon than native lambs. The mean birth weight of crossbred lambs was significantly (P < 0.05) higher than the native lambs. The crossbred had comparatively higher body weights from I to 6 month of age but did not attain level of significance. The values of heart girth, height at withers and pin shoulder length of native and crossbred lambs were comparable throughout the study.