Phenotypic Characterization of Camels (Camelus dromedarius) in Selected Herds of Katsina State

The aim of this study was to characterize and identify dromedary in selected herds of Katsina state of Nigeria to which selection can be applied for improvement of body weights. Phenotypic data of 111 mature camels (48 camel bulls and 63 camel cows) within age range 4 to 9 years were obtained from three herds (Daura, Mani and Mashi) in Katsina state of Nigeria. Camels were grouped into 4-6 and 7-9 years to take body linear measurements and body weight. At 4-6 years, neck length, height at withers, hump length, hump circumference, body length, abdominal circumference, footpad circumference tail length and body weight among camel bulls varied(P<0.05) across herds; Daura herd had the highest body weights. Neck length, width of the shoulder, height at withers anterior limb length and body weight showed significant (P<0.05) variation among camel cows. Mani herd had the highest body weights. At 7-9 years, distance between the eyes, neck length, height at withers, anterior limb length, height at hump, hump length, hump circumference and hump height, body length, tail length and body weight among camel bull was significant(P<0.05). Mashi and Mani measured higher with similar body weights. Neck length, height at withers, anterior limb length, thoracic girth, body length, abdominal circumference, posterior limb length, and body weight varied significantly (P<0.05) across herds. Mashi herd had the highest body weights. There were similar morphological features in the three herds: straight, convex face profile; erect ears and hump orientation; dominant coat colours were: grey, brown and white. Because of the heavily built body of the Katsina camels, they are also called Arabi or packed camels.