Haemoglobin Polymorphism Investigation and their Effects on Morphometric Traits on Two Goat Breeds in South Western Nigeria

Abstract This study examined the genetic diversity of West African Dwarf (WAD) and Red Sokoto (RS) goats in Southwestern Nigeria using haemoglobin (Hb) polymorphism and its association with morphological traits. Blood samples from 400 goats (200 WAD and 200 RS) were analyzed using cellulose acetate electrophoresis, revealing three genotypes (AA, AC, CC) controlled by two co- dominant alleles. Allele frequencies for A, B, and C were 0.00, 0.28, and 0.72 in WAD and 0.00, 0.22, and 0.77 in RS goats, respectively. Genotype frequencies in WAD were 0.02 (AA), 0.51 (AC), and 0.47 (CC); and 0.00 (AA), 0.44 (AC), and 0.56 (CC) in RS goats. A significant deviation from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (P < 0.05) was observed, indicating non-random mating. The expected heterozygosity (H) was 0.40 and 0.35 for WAD and RS, respectively, while the local inbreeding coefficient (F) was − 0.28, suggesting disassortative mating. In terms of body traits, individuals with Hb AC and CC genotypes exhibited significantly higher (P < 0.05) body weight, heart girth, height at withers, ear length, and hock length in both goat breeds. Other body parameters showed no significant differences. The study concluded that Hb A allele predominates in WAD goats and that Hb CC genotype correlates with superior body measurements. It also emphasized the need for further studies using advanced molecular tools to understand the genetic basis of productivity traits and improve selective breeding programs in indigenous goat populations in Nigeria.