Phenotypic Characterization of Indonesian Jambi Buffalo in the Highland and Lowland Areas using Multivariate Analysis

Jambi buffaloes are extensively reared under a closed system by smallholder farmers. This study aimed to analyze the phenotypic characteristics of buffaloes in Jambi Province, Indonesia, across the Highland and lowland areas. A total of 160 buffaloes were sampled, comprising 53 from the highlands and 107 from the lowlands. Descriptive analysis was applied to qualitative data, while analysis of variance, Duncan's Multiple Range Test, Pearson correlation, principal component analysis (PCA), discriminant analysis, and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) were used for quantitative data. Results revealed considerable diversity in qualitative traits across both populations. Highland buffaloes exhibited significantly larger body morphometrics (P0.05) than their lowland counterparts. Pearson correlations between body morphometrics and morphometric indices ranged from low to high. PCA identified three principal components (PCs) for highland buffaloes and two PCs for lowland buffaloes based on body morphometrics, while four PCs were extracted from morphometric indices in both groups. Discriminant analysis characterized approximately 48.09% of Highland and 51.92% of lowland buffaloes based on body morphometrics, and 57.69% and 42.31%, respectively, based on morphometric indices. HCA classified Jambi buffaloes into three clusters: Merangin (first cluster), Kerinci (second cluster), and Tanjung Jabung Barat, Tebo, and Batanghari (third cluster). In conclusion, buffaloes from Highland and lowland areas exhibit significant phenotypic differences, characterized by larger body size in highland populations, alongside genetic variation and local adaptations reflected in clustering patterns. These findings provide a scientific foundation for breeding and conservation programs tailored to the specific conditions of each ecosystem.