Phenotypic and molecular characterization of goat populations in western Algeria

Background: Goat farming is vital in arid regions. In Algeria, local goats make an important contribution to meat and milk production. Yet, despite their economic importance, goats are not used to their full potential. This is largely due to the limited breeding programmes and the lack of genetic studies. Phenotypic and genetic analyses can be used to determine livestock adaptability and productivity. Morphometric traits provide insights into body structure and growth, while molecular studies identify key genes like MSTN coding for myostatin, which regulates muscle growth and development, and PRL coding for prolactin, which is important in milk production and the development of mammary glands. Aim: This study investigates the phenotypic and molecular genetic traits of local goat populations in western Algeria. Methods: Morphometric data and blood samples were collected from 119 adult goats across four regions (Oran, Ain-Temouchent, Tlemcen and Mecheria). The traits measured included body, ear and tail length, as well as heights at different points of the body. Results: Descriptive analysis showed that body length (BL), chest size (CS) and abdominal circumference (AC) had the highest mean values, while chest depth (CD) was the most stable trait with minimal variation. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed a strong correlation between traits, such as the height at the withers, back and sacrum height. Using PCR-RFLP technology, genotypic frequencies for the MSTN and PRL loci were found after DNA extraction for all blood samples. The PCA of morphometric traits and genotypes of the two genes, MSTN and PRL, revealed that the MSTN gene demonstrates a moderate positive correlation with the neck length and pelvis width traits. On the other hand, the population showed low genetic diversity by studied regions, with higher variability in Oran compared to Tlemcen. Conclusions: The study underscores the critical need to develop and improve breeding strategies to increase overall meat and milk production. Furthermore, it highlights the largely untapped potential of goat farming in Algeria, a sector which could contribute significantly to the national agricultural production and rural economy.