Adaptation and Growth Performance of F1 Progeny of Crossbred Sheep in Bangladesh

The research was conducted to assess the growth performance of different crossbred sheep at Bangladesh Livestock Research Institute (BLRI), Savar, Dhaka. In the crossbreeding program, Perendale, Dorper and Damara breed were considered as sire and BLRI improved native sheep (BNS) was used as dam. The production performance of assorted F1 progeny were evaluated and compared with BLRI improved native sheep. Data analysis was carried out using Generalized Linear Model (GLM) procedure of Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25.0. Each crossbred genotype outperformed native sheep in terms of live weights and Average Daily gain (ADG). The live weights (p<0.001 and p<0.01) and ADG (p<0.001) significantly influenced by genotype except the 6 months live weight. Seasonal effects were found non-significant on live weights and ADG except birth weight (p<0.05). Among the crossbreds, the highest birth weight was found in Dorper crossbred (2.37±0.13 kg) while 12 months live weight was found higher in Perendale crossbred (22.33±0.99 kg), respectively. In case of cumulative growth performance of male, the highest value was found in Damara crossbred while, Perendale crossbred female was found better compared to other crossbred. Major disease frequently occurred in crossbred sheep was diarrhea. The survivability rate (%) of crossbred sheep at lamb (0-3 months of age) and grower (3-8 months of age) stage were 92.55 and 90.8, respectively indicates positive influence on the crossbreeding program. Though, this is very first work regarding crossbred sheep, further research is needed in corporation with other economic trait associated with growth and reproduction to evaluate all the crossbred genotype as well as select a suitable crossbred for the production of commercial market lamb in Bangladesh.