GM 23. Creole goat performances and main constraints in Guadeloupe

Abstract

This global revision describes productive potential and of resistance to diseases of the bred Creole goat in the 15 last years in experimental conditions at INRA, Guadalupe. Data on reproductive performances of 1 904 kiddings; 145 individual lactations; regular animal performances upon 6 375 kids, were used to estimate the preweaning performances and of postweaning performances upon 1 097 kids. The genetic variation of the resistance of 13 sires to internal parasites was assessed by the mean postweaning performances of their 489 offsprings (both sex). Data were analyzed by different linear models. Fertility average was of 90 % (3 mating times in two years); with 2.1 kid/kidding. Its borning weight was 1.73 kg and the weaning weight of 7.8 kg. Significant effects of the age of kidding, childbirths type and sex on results. Nutritional levels affected yields of milk averaging 792 g/d. The infection by internal parasites were permanent with a prevalence of Haemonchus which is responsible of 80 % of mortality preweans. A significant genetic variability in favourable and unfavourable environments was shown for the 6 month old goats. On the other hand, a genetic resistance to the heartwater was clear. We conclude that Creole goat, a local tropical breed, has high productive capacities provided husbandry conditions are adequate. Thus there exists scope for improvement for the goat breeders. Different traits based on reproductive and maternal performances as well as resistance to internal parasitism will be included in the genetic improvement program of the guadeloupean Creole goat.