Morphometric clustering of peruvian creole goats suggests divergence linked to farm origin rather than dry forest ecosystem

Abstract

In northern Peru, seasonally dry forests (SDFs) host extensive goat production systems, with the Piura region accounting for 17% of the national goat population. This herd is predominantly composed of Peruvian Creole goats, a locally adapted genotype known for its phenotypic plasticity under harsh environmental conditions. In other regions, environmental and management conditions have shaped distinct morphotypes, which form the basis for geographical indication schemes. These have proven effective in adding value to animal products and supporting regional economic development. This study assessed whether morphometric traits in Peruvian Creole goats align with SDF ecosystems in Piura, aiming to identify patterns suggestive of distinct morphotypes. We evaluated 200 adult female goats (>3 years old) from 12 farms located in two contrasting SDF ecosystems: plains SDF, in Catacaos district, and hill and mountain SDF, in Lancones district. During routine herd management and with owner authorization, we recorded body weight and nine morphometric traits. A hierarchical cluster analysis constrained to two clusters was conducted, followed by PERMANOVA to assess morphometric divergence between clusters. Cluster analysis revealed that 97.3% of animals in cluster 2 originated from the plains SDF, although they represented only 67.6% of all goats sampled in that ecosystem. The remainder grouped with 97.8% of the hills and mountains SDF animals in cluster 1. Four farms within plains SDF accounted for most animals in cluster 2, which exhibited significantly larger body dimensions (p < 0.05), including 41% higher live weight, 27% greater chest width, and 15.6% wider rump width. These results suggest that, while ecosystem type plays a role in shaping goat morphometry, specific farm-level practices or conditions may also drive morphotype differentiation. Further investigation into local management and environmental factors is warranted to support potential geographical indications for distinct Creole goat morphotypes.